Residents of Lafiagi in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State erupted in protest on Monday, expressing deep frustration over worsening insecurity marked by frequent kidnappings, killings, and terrorist attacks in their communities. The predominantly youthful protesters accused local and state authorities, including the Emir of Lafiagi, of failing to address the escalating violence that has disrupted daily life.
The demonstration quickly turned violent as the protesters set fire to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office in Lafiagi and vandalized the Emir’s palace, smashing windows and damaging parts of the building. Eyewitnesses reported that the unrest intensified as the youths moved toward key government and security agency offices.
In a viral video, a resident lamented, “We have been crying and dying in silence. People are being kidnapped every week. We don’t sleep with both eyes closed anymore, and nobody not the governor, the chairman, nor even the Emir is doing anything about it.” The protest was reportedly sparked by the recent abduction of a popular Point of Sale (POS) operator and other residents, with families forced to pay hefty ransoms for their release.
Sources revealed that Lafiagi and surrounding communities have suffered multiple abductions in recent weeks, heightening tensions and fueling the youths’ anger. The protest reflects a breaking point for the community, which feels abandoned amid the surge in violence and inadequate government response.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement, but the incident underscores the urgent need for intensified efforts to restore peace and protect vulnerable communities in Kwara State.