Security agencies in Kwara State have arrested three prominent Fulani leaders, including the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), over alleged involvement in terrorism-related activities.
The arrests followed weeks of intelligence gathering and investigations into rising cases of kidnapping and armed banditry in parts of Kwara State. According to security sources, the suspects are accused of aiding kidnapping operations and providing support to armed bandits operating within and around the state.
A senior security officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, said preliminary findings linked the suspects to several criminal activities that have caused fear among residents, especially in rural communities.
“The investigation revealed that these individuals were not innocent bystanders,” the source said. “They allegedly provided information, logistics, and financial support to criminal groups involved in kidnapping and violent attacks.”
One of the arrested suspects is the president of MACBAN in Kwara State. Security reports claim he admitted during interrogation to assisting multiple kidnapping operations connected to armed Fulani bandits. The other two suspects are also described as influential Fulani leaders within their communities.
The suspects are reportedly over 60 years old, an age traditionally associated with wisdom and leadership in many Nigerian communities. Security officials expressed concern that individuals expected to promote peace were instead accused of encouraging violence and criminality.
“These are people who should be settling disputes and protecting lives,” the security source added. “Instead, they are alleged to have contributed to insecurity.”
Kwara State, once considered relatively peaceful compared to neighbouring states, has in recent years faced growing security challenges. Incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and attacks on farms and highways have increased, particularly in border areas close to Niger and Kogi states.
Farmers and travellers have been frequent targets, with kidnappers demanding large sums of money for the release of victims. These attacks have disrupted farming activities, worsened food insecurity, and forced some residents to abandon their homes.
MACBAN, a nationwide association representing cattle breeders, has often been involved in discussions on farmer-herder conflicts across Nigeria. While the association has repeatedly condemned violence and criminal acts, there have been growing calls for closer scrutiny of some local leaders accused of shielding criminals.
In Kwara, tensions between farmers and herders have occasionally flared, although community leaders and the state government have made efforts to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The recent arrests have raised concerns but also renewed calls for accountability.
“This is not about ethnicity or religion,” said a human rights advocate in Ilorin. “It is about individuals who may have abused their positions. Justice must be served, but we must avoid collective blame.”
The Kwara State Government has not yet issued a detailed statement on the arrests, but officials have reiterated their commitment to tackling insecurity. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has previously pledged full support for security agencies and warned that anyone involved in crime would face the law, regardless of status or background.
“The fight against terrorism and kidnapping requires courage,” said a retired security officer. “When leaders are involved, it becomes more dangerous, but also more important to act.”
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be formally charged after investigations are concluded. Security agencies say more arrests may follow as operations continue across the state.
As Kwara residents await further developments, many hope the case will lead to improved security and restore confidence in affected communities. For families who have lost loved ones or paid heavy ransoms, the arrests offer a sense of cautious hope that justice may finally be served.
