A member of the Offa Security Committee in Kwara State, Air Vice Marshal Abdul-Ganiyu Olabisi (Rtd), has called for the direct allocation of security votes to local governments. He argued that the current arrangement, where security allocations are managed at the state level, limits effective grassroots response to security issues.
Renewed Attacks in Kwara
Olabisi lamented the renewed attacks in parts of Kwara North and Kwara South. Several communities have come under severe attacks in recent times, resulting in loss of lives and displacement of residents. This has increased pressure on locals to organize self-defense measures.
On February 3, 2026, more than 160 people were killed in Woro village by terrorists. In mid-March 2026, security forces and vigilantes repelled suspected terrorists targeting Oro-Ago for mass kidnappings. Oke-Ode had also recorded deadly church attacks, leading to the killing of vigilantes and residents. Abductions and ransom demands surged along highways such as Isanlu-Isin.
Community Vigilante Structure
Olabisi disclosed that the Offa community has established a vigilante structure to complement security agencies through intelligence gathering and patrol operations, using limited arms permitted by law. According to him, the initiative is funded entirely by contributions from well-meaning individuals, covering salaries, vehicles, motorcycles, fueling, and other logistics.
“Monthly, the community spends over N10 million on security operations without any form of government support. This is not sustainable,” he said. Olabisi stated that while communities have stepped up efforts to support security agencies, the lack of government funding remains a major constraint.
“As first responders to any breach of security, communities have a critical role to play, but this responsibility cannot be sustained without government support,” he added.
Call for Direct Allocation
Olabisi stressed that the primary responsibility of government remains the protection of lives and property. He urged authorities to match calls for community participation with concrete financial backing. “There is an urgent need for government to allocate security votes directly to local governments to support community-based security initiatives,” he said.
He added that direct allocation would enhance transparency and accountability in the use of security funds, while also improving the capacity of local communities to respond to threats. “If security votes are channelled directly to local governments, it will strengthen grassroots security and ensure timely response to incidents within communities.”
Concerns Over State Police
Olabisi also expressed concern over the slow pace of efforts to establish state police. He noted that while the initiative is commendable, it could take years to fully implement. “We cannot wait for years while communities are under attack. Immediate intervention through direct funding is necessary,” he said.
He added that empowering communities financially would not only improve their defensive capacity but also deter criminal elements from exploiting vulnerable areas. “Once communities are better equipped and organised, it will significantly reduce the ease with which attackers operate.”
