DSS Warns of Fresh Security Threat in Kwara as OPC Calls for Emergency Measures

Heightened security concerns have emerged in Kwara State following an intelligence alert by the Department of State Services (DSS) warning of a possible attack in parts of Baruten Local Government Area, even as the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) called for urgent security measures across affected regions.

The development comes days after a deadly attack in Kaiama Local Government Area reportedly claimed several lives and displaced residents, deepening fears among communities in the Kwara North axis.

DSS Issues Fresh Security Alert

Akahi News gathered that the DSS, in a communication to the Kwara State Police Command, warned of a potential threat to Gbabe community in Gwanara District, Baruten LGA. The intelligence reportedly pointed to the movement and build-up of armed individuals around Kiyoru Settlement, raising concerns of a possible attack.

The alert reportedly referenced past incidents involving armed groups operating around the Kainji Lake National Park corridor, an area security agencies have long identified as vulnerable due to its difficult terrain and proximity to international borders.

Security authorities were urged to treat the intelligence with urgency and take proactive steps to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the affected communities.

Residents in nearby settlements have reportedly expressed anxiety following the alert, especially in the aftermath of the recent violence in Woro community, where survivors were said to have fled to safer areas after the attack.

Government Moves to Strengthen Security Coordination

In response to the evolving situation, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq convened an emergency security council meeting with heads of security agencies in Ilorin to assess the threat and review ongoing security strategies.

According to officials, the meeting focused on strengthening coordinated responses among security formations and improving intelligence-sharing mechanisms aimed at preventing further attacks and safeguarding lives and property.

Governors from neighbouring states, including Kogi and Ekiti, also visited victims receiving treatment in Ilorin, expressing solidarity with affected communities and commending security agencies for their response efforts.

Observers note that cross-border movements through forested areas spanning Kaiama and Baruten LGAs have remained a longstanding challenge for security operatives, underscoring the need for sustained regional cooperation.

OPC Calls for Emergency Security Measures

Meanwhile, the Oodua People’s Congress has called on governors across the South-West and other Yoruba-speaking states to declare a state of emergency on security, citing escalating attacks and growing insecurity in parts of the region.

In a statement issued by the organisation’s leadership, the group described the recent killings as deeply troubling and urged authorities to intensify efforts in tracking down and prosecuting those responsible.

The OPC also appealed to political leaders to avoid politicising security issues and instead prioritise collaborative solutions capable of addressing the root causes of violence.

Analysts say such calls reflect rising public frustration over insecurity across several parts of the country, though security experts continue to emphasise that responses must remain within the framework of law and coordinated national security policy.

Rising Security Concerns and the Way Forward

The latest alert highlights persistent concerns over rural insecurity and the operational challenges faced by security agencies in remote border communities. Experts argue that early intelligence warnings, if effectively acted upon, could help prevent attacks and reduce casualties.

While authorities continue to assure residents of improved security deployments, many communities are calling for sustained presence of security personnel and long-term strategies addressing both criminal networks and local vulnerabilities.

As the situation develops, stakeholders continue to urge calm while security agencies intensify efforts to forestall further violence and restore confidence among residents.

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