Security operatives in Kwara State have arrested senior officials of the state chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, including its president, Idris Abubakar, over alleged involvement in the sponsorship of banditry and kidnapping.
The arrests followed intelligence-led investigations into the recent rise in violent crimes across parts of the state. Security sources disclosed that the suspects were picked up in connection with alleged links to Fulani bandit groups operating in Kwara and neighbouring areas.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the Miyetti Allah leader allegedly admitted to providing support for some kidnapping operations carried out by armed groups. The development has sparked concern among residents, given the influence and standing of those arrested.
A senior security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the situation as disturbing, noting that the suspects are elderly community figures expected to promote peace.
“These are men over 60 years old who should be mediators and voices of stability in their communities. Instead, they are alleged to have played roles that fuel fear and violence,” the official said.
The security source stressed that the arrests were based on individual actions and not targeted at any ethnic group or the broader cattle-breeding community.
“This investigation is about personal accountability. It is not an indictment of any ethnic or professional group,” the official added.
The Kwara State Police Command is expected to formally parade the suspects and provide details of the specific kidnapping cases linked to the investigation.
Meanwhile, security agencies have urged residents to remain calm, assuring the public of their resolve to tackle criminal activities across the state without bias or favour.
