A detailed analysis of Kwara State’s approved 2025 budget has shown that the government allocated just N350 million for security-related expenses for the entire year. This figure, surprisingly low amid mounting insecurity across the state, is overshadowed by a much higher provision for vehicle procurement for members of the State Assembly.
According to the budget breakdown, N867 million was designated for the purchase of vehicles for members of the House, including the Clerk, the Secretary of the Kwara State House of Assembly Commission, and various departments within the legislative arm.
Furthermore, an additional N569 million was set aside for the acquisition of Prado SUVs for presiding officers, a Toyota Hiace 16-seater bus, and Hilux pickups — all designated for legislative operations.
This glaring disparity in funding between lawmakers’ comfort and security provisions comes at a time when many communities in Kwara are under siege from violent attacks and kidnappings.
On July 14, Chronicles Reporters reported that suspected militants, believed to be affiliated with the Mahmuda group, launched a deadly assault on Kemanji village in Kaiama Local Government Area. During the early morning raid, one resident was killed, and several others were reportedly abducted.
A resident who spoke with Chronicles Reporters recounted how the attackers struck suddenly, leaving the village in chaos and fear. The number of abductees could not be confirmed, but the source said multiple people were taken by the armed men.
This attack adds to a troubling pattern of violence affecting the Kwara North and South Senatorial Districts, where rural communities continue to face frequent assaults from criminal gangs.
Earlier on June 3, Chronicles Reporters gathered from multiple sources that the Mahmuda sect had also attacked Duruma village in Baruten Local Government Area. The gunmen reportedly killed villagers and, just days earlier, had razed a nearby farm settlement.
In a previous report from April, Chronicles Reporters revealed how the Mahmuda faction had started establishing its presence in communities such as Kemaanji, Tenebo, Baabete, Nuku, and Nanu — all in Kaiama LGA — as well as in the Yashikira axis of Baruten LGA.
“They call themselves the Mahmuda group. Their leader is issuing threats through voice notes, warning local communities. They kill, kidnap and extort ransoms,” a community source said.
Another informant lamented the growing influence of armed groups across Nigeria, saying, “The deteriorating security situation is affecting people’s lives and livelihoods. These militant outfits are taking over areas where the government has no strong presence.”
The source further highlighted the vulnerability of natural reserves such as Kainji Lake National Park, which remains largely unprotected. “With no one watching over the park, illegal loggers, fishermen, and hunters are exploiting the resources meant for public use for their personal gain,” he noted.
The state’s spending choices have come under increasing public scrutiny, as critics argue that the government appears more focused on purchasing luxury vehicles for officials than tackling the pressing issue of insecurity.
This has sparked debate over the appropriateness of current budgetary priorities, with many residents calling for a reallocation of funds to areas that directly impact citizens’ safety and well-being.
Stay updated with Chronicles Reporters via our official WhatsApp channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VabITrvEAKW7DSkTfP0J