Kwara Government Denies Bandit Siege in Nine LGAs, Faults Peter Obi for Spreading False Information

The Kwara State Government has dismissed reports claiming that nine local government areas in the state are under siege by bandits, describing the allegations as “totally false and reckless.”

In a statement on Monday, the government said no part of Kwara is currently under the control or threat of bandits, contrary to viral claims circulating on social media.

“We wish to alert the public to some reckless claims that nine local government areas of Kwara State are under siege by bandits. This is totally false. No local government area is under siege in the state,” the statement read.

The government admitted that there have been isolated security challenges in some areas but said they do not justify the “wicked escalation and fake news” allegedly promoted by political opponents within and outside the state.

It accused certain “opposition elements” of deliberately spreading fear and misinformation, referring to them as “the online promoters and equivalence of bandits.”

“These individuals instill fear in the populace through fake news such as the unfounded claim of nine LGAs being under siege and alleged movements of gunmen in parts of Asa Local Government Area,” it added.

The statement further expressed disappointment that former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, allegedly shared the false report on his social media platforms.

“We regretfully observe that Mr. Peter Obi has lent his social media handles to spreading such fake news. This is not expected from him as a statesman. We request Mr. Peter Obi to bring down the post as it is totally false and inappropriate,” the government said.

Kwara authorities urged citizens to desist from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic and undermining the efforts of security agencies.

“This irresponsible behaviour only makes things harder for our security forces, who already have enough on their plates,” the statement concluded.