Tsaragi Youths to Protest Rising Kidnapping, Killings and Banditry in Edu

Tsaragi Youths to Protest Rising Kidnapping, Killings and Banditry in Edu

Concerned youths from Tsaragi community in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State are set to hold a peaceful protest over the worsening security situation in the area, including reported cases of kidnapping, killings and banditry.

The demonstration is scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in Lafiagi. The organisers formally notified the Nigeria Police Force, Lafiagi Area Command, through a letter dated September 12 and signed by Comr. Saidu Musa Tsaragi, Coordinator of Take-It-Back in Kwara State.

According to the organisers, the protest is intended to draw the attention of the government and relevant security agencies to the growing insecurity that has created fear, hardship and uncertainty among residents of Tsaragi and neighbouring communities.

The youths also appealed to the police to provide security during the demonstration, stressing that the protest would be conducted peacefully and within the limits of the law. They requested adequate police presence to maintain public order and protect participants.

The planned protest comes amid reports of continued attacks and abductions in rural communities across Kwara State, with some victims allegedly spending extended periods in captivity while their families face repeated ransom demands.

In a recent report by SaharaReporters, terrorists operating in the area were alleged to have demanded and received ₦5 million, a Bajaj motorcycle, two smartphones and 20 bottles of alcohol from the family of the Magaji, or traditional chief, of Woru community for the release of his kidnapped son. Despite the reported payment and provision of the requested items, the victim was allegedly not released.

The family was reportedly contacted about three days later and asked to provide another ₦5 million. The victim, who was said to have been abducted in August, was reportedly still in captivity at the time of the earlier report.

Residents also reportedly disclosed that no fewer than six other people had been kidnapped from Woru and neighbouring communities between August and September.

The latest development has further heightened concerns among residents of rural communities in Edu, particularly over the safety of people travelling between communities and those who depend on farming and other economic activities.

The protesters are expected to use the demonstration to call for stronger security measures, increased deployment of security personnel and improved protection along roads connecting Tsaragi and other vulnerable communities.

The organisers reiterated that the September 16 demonstration would be peaceful and responsible, while urging authorities to put adequate security arrangements in place to ensure the safety of protesters and prevent any disruption.

The planned action is also expected to increase pressure on the Kwara State Government and security agencies to take more decisive steps towards addressing the persistent insecurity affecting Tsaragi and surrounding communities.