Insecurity: Why Protesters Attacked NDLEA Office in Kwara, Lafiagi Faces Threat from Within, Says Source

By Omowumi Omotosho
A top-tier government security team stormed Lafiagi on Monday in response to early morning unrest that spiraled into a violent attack on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office and an aborted bid to set fire to the Emir’s palace.
The unrest was reportedly fueled by a range of local tensions, particularly linked to a recent crackdown on illicit drug activities by security operatives.
The high-level delegation included Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi; Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins; and the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Security, Alhaji Muhyideen Aliu.
Also, present were the Kingmakers of Lafiagi Emirate, the Commander Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) Lafiagi, Mohammed Yatsubologi, The Wali of Lafiagi, Justice Adam Idrisu (Rtd), Engr. Umaru Shaba, Wakili Lafiagi.
On arrival, they were welcomed by key local officials such as Edu Local Government Chairman, Abdullahi Bello; Development Officer for Edu, Alhaji Haruna Likpata; Commissioner for Youth Development, Shehu Ndanusa Usman; and Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Bello Taoheed Abubakar.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, it was revealed that the tension in Lafiagi was related to different community issues, including security operations targeting hard drug dealers.
“The protest in the morning was related to recent arrests of suspected drug dealers. The protesters took advantage of the anxiety around recent security breaches to launch an attack on the NDLEA office, where they burnt three vehicles and motorcycles, released three suspects, and carted away substances seized from the dealers.
They also attempted to attack the Emir’s Palace because, according to them, he did not stop the NDLEA from arresting the suspected drug dealers and smokers.
“This is sheer criminality, and we condemn it totally. The soldiers and other security forces have been able to restore calm in Lafiagi town. We also visited the palace, where we addressed everyone on the need to maintain peace and order,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, an authoritative source who spoke to National Pilot under the condition of anonymity on Monday evening raised an alarm over the growing insecurity in the area. According to the source, “the vigilantes that went to the forest said the bandits were in hundreds, heavily armed. It seems there is a conspiracy within; the suspected kidnappers have a list of people they plan to kidnap. I advise that additional troops should be sent to secure the area.”
In his address, the Kwara state Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo condemned the attacks and acts of vandalism, stating:“While we acknowledge recent security incidents, today’s violent protest and the attack on the NDLEA office represent a dangerous trend that must be swiftly addressed. No grievance justifies burning public assets or obstructing justice. We are deploying all tactical and intelligence resources to restore normalcy and apprehend all those involved.”
He further urged the Emirate Council and local government to intensify efforts in youth engagement, strengthen community policing structures, and promote dialogue over violence.