Peace has been restored in Lafiagi, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, following a violent protest on Monday morning that led to the destruction of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office and a failed attempt to set fire to the Emir’s Palace.
A high-level security delegation, including the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi; Brigade Commander Brigadier General Ezra Barkins; and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, Alhaji Muhyideen Aliu, visited the community to assess the situation and ensure calm.
They were received by local authorities, including Edu Local Government Chairman Abdullahi Bello; Development Officer Alhaji Haruna Likpata; Commissioner for Youth Development Shehu Ndanusa Usman; and Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Bello Taoheed Abubakar.
According to Alhaji Muhyideen Aliu, the protest was sparked by recent anti-drug trafficking operations in the area that led to the arrest of suspected drug dealers. He said the protesters, exploiting public anxiety over security operations, stormed the NDLEA office, setting ablaze three vehicles and several motorcycles, freeing three detained suspects, and looting seized drug exhibits.
“The protesters attempted to attack the Emir’s Palace, accusing the traditional ruler of not intervening in the arrest of known drug dealers and users,” Aliu said. “This act is nothing short of criminality, and we condemn it in the strongest terms.”
He confirmed that military and police personnel had swiftly intervened to restore order and prevent further damage. The delegation also met with the Emir and community leaders to emphasize the importance of maintaining peace and respecting lawful authority.
“We are grateful to His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his swift response. Thanks to the combined efforts of security agencies, normalcy has returned to Lafiagi, and additional deployments have been made to strengthen security,” Aliu added.
He stressed that no lives were lost during the incident and warned residents against resorting to violence or taking the law into their own hands.
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