The Kwara State Police Command yesterday said it had discovered that six persons who were operating with a vehicle belonging to the Ifelodun local government area of Kwara State and arrested by soldiers in Edo State are legitimate members of a vigilante group in Kwara.
Controversy had ensued in Kwara State following a viral video showing some individuals arrested by the soldiers in Edo State, claiming that they were supplied with arms by ” Ilorin Government”.
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) in the state, had addressed a press conference accusing the state government of supporting armed bandits.
But, the state police command in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Toun Ejire- Adeyemi, said the individuals arrested by the soldiers in Edo are members of a legitimate vigilante group in Kwara operating in collaboration with recognised security agencies in the efforts to combat banditry and other criminalities in the state.
The statement read:” ” The Kwara State Police Command wishes to confirm that on Wednesday, 31st December, 2025, it received six (6) vigilante members who were earlier arrested by personnel of the Nigerian Army along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo local government area of Edo State.
“The vigilantes, travelling in a vehicle belonging to Ifelodun local government area of Kwara State, was formally handed over to the Kwara State Police Command by the Brigade Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N.N. Rume, for the purpose of investigation and profiling.
” Following a thorough investigation, it was established that the individuals are legitimate members of a vigilante group operating in collaboration with recognised security agencies in the ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other forms of criminality.
“Consequently, having been exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing, the vigilante members were released to their respective leaders.
“The commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi reiterates the command’s commitment to synergy among security agencies and community-based security outfits, while urging all groups to continually operate within the confines of the law.
“Members of the public are assured that the command remains steadfast in its resolve to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Kwara State.”
