The Kwara State Government has strongly denied viral social media claims alleging that armed bandits were arrested in Ifelodun Local Government Area (LGA) after reportedly confessing that they received weapons and a vehicle from the state government. The government described the reports as false, misleading, and capable of inciting public panic, urging residents to disregard them.
In an official statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, the government clarified several issues surrounding the viral video and the claims circulating online.
Key Clarifications by the Kwara State Government
No Arrests in Kwara State
The government stated categorically that no armed bandits were arrested in Ifelodun LGA or anywhere in Kwara State by the Nigerian Army or any other security agency. According to authorities, no such incident was reported to the state.
Incident Did Not Occur in Kwara
Investigations revealed that the suspects shown in the viral video were arrested in Auchi, Edo State, not Kwara. Security agencies are still investigating the full circumstances surrounding their arrest.
Misinterpretation of the Viral Video
In the widely circulated 1–2 minute clip, the suspects claimed that the vehicle they used came from the “Ilorin Government” and that weapons were sourced “from Abuja.” However, the government stressed that:
- The suspects did not state that the Kwara State Government supplied weapons.
- State governments do not have the legal authority to procure or distribute prohibited firearms such as AK-47 rifles.
Clarification on the Security Vehicle
The van seen in the video, bearing Ifelodun LGA markings, was previously loaned to local vigilante groups as part of efforts to strengthen community security. These vigilantes have since left Ifelodun, and the local government had repeatedly reported the vehicle as missing before it was eventually recovered in Edo State. The Chairman of Ifelodun LGA has since commended the Nigerian Army for recovering the vehicle.
Government’s Advisory
The Kwara State Government warned against the spread of unverified and sensational information, noting that such disinformation could undermine public confidence and ongoing security efforts. It also called for stronger inter-agency collaboration to effectively combat insecurity across state boundaries.
Background
While Ifelodun LGA has experienced genuine security challenges in recent months—including bandit attacks, kidnappings, and clashes involving vigilante groups—the government emphasized that this particular viral video was wrongly linked to Kwara State. Initial reports by some media outlets misattributed the arrests to Kwara before official clarification was issued.
The government’s statement, released around December 14–15, 2025, aims to restore calm amid heightened security concerns in parts of the state. Residents were advised to rely only on official and verified sources for information and to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The Kwara State Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged the public to support security agencies with accurate information rather than speculation.
