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Lafiagi, Kwara State – A wave of violent protest erupted in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State on Monday, as frustrated youths in Lafiagi community took to the streets over rising insecurity and government inaction.
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the demonstration escalated after a series of kidnappings, killings, and alleged terrorism incidents left residents feeling abandoned by local and state authorities.
The protesters, mostly youths, set fire to the office of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and vandalised parts of the Emir of Lafiagi’s palace, smashing windows and damaging structures.
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“We No Longer Sleep With Both Eyes Closed”
In a viral video clip seen by TJ News Nigeria, residents chanted protest songs and held placards demanding immediate intervention. One protester, speaking in anguish, said:
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“People are being kidnapped every week. We don’t sleep with both eyes closed anymore. The governor, the chairman, even the Emir are doing nothing.”
The protest, sources say, was triggered by mounting fear and repeated incidents of abductions across Lafiagi and neighbouring communities. The unrest reportedly intensified as protesters advanced toward government facilities.
Government Offices Targeted
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- NDLEA Office: Set ablaze during the protest, according to eyewitnesses.
- Emir’s Palace: Vandalised with broken windows and structural damage.
- Other government buildings: Security reportedly tightened to prevent further escalation.
A community member said the protest was a culmination of anger and neglect:
“The youths are exhausted. We’ve been experiencing frequent attacks without any decisive response from the authorities.”
Rising Insecurity in Lafiagi
The area has seen a disturbing rise in criminal activities, especially in the last few weeks:
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- Repeated kidnappings: Victims are mostly abducted from farms and remote villages.
- Ransom payments: Families have reportedly paid large sums to free loved ones.
- Recent incident: On Sunday, three Fulani women were allegedly abducted in the region.
TJ News Nigeria learnt that some victims are still in captivity, with no official statement from law enforcement or the state government as of the time of filing this report.
Lafiagi, located in Edu LGA, has become a hotspot for criminal activity, despite past efforts to improve security. The incident highlights growing distrust in traditional rulers and security institutions, especially when public outcry is met with silence.
The Kwara State Government is yet to issue a formal statement regarding Monday’s protest.
What you should know
- Protest sparked by rising insecurity in Edu LGA, Kwara State.
- NDLEA office set ablaze; Emir’s palace vandalised.
- Protesters accuse local and state authorities of neglect.
- Recent spike in kidnappings and ransom payments triggered unrest.
- Three women abducted just a day before the protest.
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