Kwara South LGs Shut Cattle Markets Amid Rising Security Concerns

Local government authorities in Kwara South have ordered the immediate closure of all cattle (Kara) markets across the region due to persistent security threats.

The directive, announced Thursday, September 18, 2025, comes from the Forum of Seven Local Government Chairmen in Kwara South following consultations with stakeholders and security agencies. The shutdown takes effect from Friday, September 19, and will remain until further notice.

In addition to cattle markets, other produce markets in the area are now required to close by 6 p.m. on market days. The chairmen emphasized that the measure is necessary to safeguard lives and property amid recent violent incidents.

“Although operations against criminal elements in the zone have made progress, military and hybrid security forces continue clean-up operations. Therefore, all Kara markets are to remain closed immediately,” the statement read.

Acknowledging the economic impact on traders and residents, the council leaders stressed that public safety must take precedence. They called on local communities to cooperate with security forces while efforts to restore peace continue.

The statement was jointly signed by the executive chairmen of Ifelodun, Isin, Irepodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Offa, and Oyun Local Government Areas.

Earlier reports indicated that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has relocated its orientation camp in Kwara State from Yikpata in Edu LGA to Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, citing rising insecurity in the region. State Coordinator Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua assured that security personnel would be deployed to ensure the safety of corps members during the three-week exercise.

This move reflects broader efforts by state authorities and local governments to prioritize security while managing the challenges of daily commerce in areas prone to criminal activities.