In response to rising insecurity in northern Kwara State, the management of Kwara State University (KWASU) has announced the suspension of its planned relocation of the new Faculty of Agriculture to its Ilesha-Baruba campus.
The announcement came through an internal memo signed by the university’s Registrar, Dr. Kikelomo W. Sallee, on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The memo, addressed to the affected faculty, stated that while the move had been scheduled for the current Rain semester, safety concerns necessitated a pause in the relocation process. A new date is expected to be communicated in due course.
The decision comes amid increasing security challenges in the region. Earlier in the week, the Kwara State Police Command confirmed that no fewer than six people were killed in separate attacks in Baruten and Kaiama local government areas.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the deadliest of the incidents occurred on Monday night, April 21, around 9:30 p.m., when suspected bandits launched an assault at the Ilesha-Baruba Motor Park. Gunmen reportedly opened fire on civilians relaxing nearby, killing six individuals, including Alhaji Ja’awire, AbdulJabar, and Mohammed Nasamu. Two others sustained life-threatening injuries and are currently receiving medical care. The deceased were taken to the Ilesha Baruba Morgue for autopsy.
The police say investigations are ongoing and that security has been reinforced in affected areas to forestall further violence.
In a related development, the Ilesha Baruba Emirate Council announced the cancellation of its weekly Kara Market, a decision prompted by yet another bandit attack in the community on Monday, April 20. The market, which was due to hold on Thursday, April 24, was suspended indefinitely.
Kara Market, considered one of the largest cattle markets in Kwara North, is a vital hub for trade in livestock and animal products, attracting traders from far and wide. Monday’s attack caused panic, disrupted business activities, and reportedly led to casualties.
Local authorities say the suspension of the market is a preventive measure, aimed at safeguarding lives and properties. Security personnel have since been deployed in greater numbers, with efforts ongoing to restore peace and assure residents of their safety.
The recent attacks have heightened fears in northern Kwara, casting a shadow over community life, academic plans, and the region’s economy. As both educational and commercial activities remain on hold, all eyes are now on the state and federal governments to intervene decisively and secure the troubled region.
