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The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Adekimi Ojo, has paid a solidarity and assessment visit to the Emir of Lafiagi, Alhaji Muhammadu Kudu Kawu, following a violent mob attack on the Emir’s Palace and the Lafiagi office of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA.
A statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, indicates that the unrest erupted on Monday at approximately 7:45 a.m. a group of aggrieved youths launched a protest at the Emir’s Palace.
The demonstration quickly escalated into violence, resulting in significant structural damage, disruption of public peace, and the setting of bonfires.
By 11:20 a.m., the same mob reportedly stormed the NDLEA office in Lafiagi, setting ablaze three operational vehicles and three motorcycles. The attackers also forcibly released four suspects from custody.
To assess the situation and bolster security efforts, CP Ojo was accompanied by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armored Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General E.B. Barkins, alongside senior police officers and tactical commanders.
The high-powered delegation was received at the Emir’s Palace by Hon. Abdullahi Bello, Chairman of Edu Local Government Area; Hon. Ndanusa Usman Shehu, Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development; and Mallam Bello T. Abubakar, Executive Chairman, Teaching Service Commission.
Alhaji Abdulraheem Alfa Mohammed, Chief of Staff to the Emir, who represented the Royal father, appreciated the police chief’s swift response.
He reaffirmed the Emirate’s commitment to maintaining peace and resolving grievances through lawful and non-violent means.
Also in attendance were Alhaji Aliyu Muyideen, Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, members of the Lafiagi Emirate Kingmakers; Mohammed Yatsubologi, Commander of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Lafiagi; the Wali of Lafiagi, Justice Adam Idrisu (Rtd); and Engr. Umaru Shaba, Wakili Lafiagi.
In his address, CP Adekimi Ojo strongly condemned the violent actions, describing them as “a dangerous trend that must be swiftly addressed.” He urged the Emirate Council and local authorities to strengthen youth engagement, enhance support for community policing, and foster dialogue over violence.
The Commissioner also commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his continued support in equipping the police with essential logistics—including patrol vehicles and motorcycles—aimed at improving security presence, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities.
The Kwara State Police Command reiterated its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property. It urged residents to avoid mob actions, remain law-abiding, and work closely with security agencies to sustain peace and order across the state.
By Abubakar Umar
