Council chairmen shut markets across Kwara South indefinitely as insecurity worsens
In response to rising insecurity across Kwara South Senatorial District, chairmen of the seven local government areas in the region have ordered the indefinite closure of all Kara (cattle) markets, effective Friday, September 19, 2025.
The decision, announced under the Forum of Seven Local Government Chairmen in Kwara South, comes amid heightened military and hybrid security operations to neutralize criminal elements destabilizing the area.
Although, the chairmen said the security forces have made significant progress in recent weeks, they insisted that the clean-up operations are still ongoing.
“All Kara markets across the Senatorial District are to shut down with immediate effect from Friday, September 19, 2025, until further notice,” the statement declared. “Additionally, all other produce markets are to close by 6:00 p.m. on market days.”
Describing the directive as “painful but necessary,” the chairmen said the move followed extensive stakeholder consultations and security assessments. They emphasized that the measure is a proactive step aimed at strengthening the local security architecture and safeguarding lives, traders, and commuters within the district.
“While we acknowledge and regret the economic impact of this decision on our people, we’ve chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and properties, and to adhere to long-term, coordinated, and structured security advisement over short-term inconveniences,” the chairmen stated.
They assured residents that efforts are underway in collaboration with the Kwara State Government and relevant security agencies to restore lasting peace to the region.
They urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as operations continue.
“The decision will be reviewed periodically, and markets will be reopened once a conducive environment is guaranteed,” they added.
The statement was jointly signed by the following local government chairmen: Hadji Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, Executive Chairman; Ifelodun Local Government Area; Hon. Benjamin Lanre Jolayemi, Executive Chairman, Isin Local Government Area; Hon. Azeez Yakub, Executive Chairman, Irepodun Local Government Area; Hon. Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, Executive Chairman, Ekiti Local Government Area; Hon. James Fadipe, Executive Chairman, Oke-Ero Local Government Area; Hon. Sulyman Olatunji, Executive Chairman, Offa Local Government Area; Hon. Akanbi Kamar Olarewaju, Executive Chairman, Oyun Local Government Area.
The chairmen concluded their statement with a joint appeal to all residents and stakeholders to support government and security efforts toward the collective goal of restoring peace and stability across Kwara South.
