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NEWS

Kwara Police Clear Armed Men Earlier Suspected Of Terror Links, Say They Are Legitimate Vigilantes

January 6, 2026 • 3 min read

By Ademola Adekusibe
Ilorin, January 6, 2026

The Kwara State Police Command has cleared six armed men previously suspected of links to terrorist groups and released them, confirming that they are legitimate members of a vigilante group working with security agencies in the state.

The men were initially arrested by Nigerian Army personnel along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State while travelling in a vehicle registered to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. Their detention sparked concern and speculation about potential ties to armed groups operating in the North-Central region.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed that the six men had been handed over to the Kwara State Police Command by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N. N. Rume, for investigation and profiling.

“Following a thorough investigation, it was established that the individuals are legitimate members of a vigilante group operating in collaboration with recognised security agencies in the ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other forms of criminality,” the statement read. “Consequently, having been exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing, the vigilante members were released to their respective leaders.”

The Kwara Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining synergy between security agencies and community-based security outfits, urging all groups to operate strictly within the law. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, assured the public that the command remains dedicated to the safety and security of all residents of Kwara State.

This development follows earlier public concern over reports that the men, initially believed to be bandits or linked to Miyetti Allah, were transporting AK-47 rifles in a security vehicle. The Kwara State Government had clarified on December 16, 2025, that the armed men were participating in a federal security operation coordinated through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) following deadly attacks in Ifelodun Local Government Area.

Ibrahim Abdulateef, Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Kwara State Governor, explained that the operation involved recognised security officers, local vigilantes, and members of Miyetti Allah working together in a joint task force-style arrangement. “Under their security setup, they use both recognised officers and a JTF which includes members of Miyetti Allah and local vigilante networks,” Abdulateef said.

He added that after completing their assignment, the men allegedly absconded with a patrol van, which prompted their interception in Edo State. The state government formally requested the return of the vehicle, he noted.

Meanwhile, Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, clarified that one of the individuals named in earlier reports, identified as Victor, is a police sergeant attached to the NSA office and not an officer of the DSS or the Nigerian Air Force.

The police and state authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from the public in reporting suspicious activities to prevent insecurity across Kwara State.