Tinubu orders troop deployment to Kwara after 75 killed
- February 5, 2026
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of a military battalion to Kwara State following the killing of 75 residents by suspected bandits, as the Federal
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of a military battalion to Kwara State following the killing of 75 residents by suspected bandits, as the Federal Government moves to contain escalating violence and reassure affected communities.
The President’s directive includes the commencement of a special counter-offensive tagged Operation Savannah Shield, alongside the appointment of a commander to lead coordinated security operations in the troubled area.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the intervention reflects Tinubu’s determination to confront armed groups threatening lives and stability.
“Help is on the way for the beleaguered people of Kaiama and surrounding communities as the President has ordered the deployment of troops and the immediate launch of Operation Savannah Shield,” Onanuga said.
Meanwhile, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq provided further details of the attack after arriving in Kaiama on Wednesday with service chiefs and members of the state executive council.
He said those killed were local Muslims who were allegedly targeted for rejecting the demands of armed extremists advancing an unfamiliar ideology.
The governor, who sympathised with grieving families, said the attackers resorted to violence after residents refused to surrender to them.
He added that the state government had intensified collaboration with federal security agencies to ensure the area is secured and those responsible are held accountable.
“This tragedy has deeply shaken our people, but decisive action has been taken to prevent a recurrence,” AbdulRazaq said, noting that the presence of additional troops would strengthen confidence and deter further attacks.
Kaiama, a border community in Kwara North, has faced intermittent security challenges linked to criminal elements exploiting forest routes.
However, authorities expressed optimism that the deployment of an army battalion under Operation Savannah Shield would significantly degrade the capacity of armed groups operating in the region and restore normalcy.
