Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigerian military to move decisively to restore peace and security in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State following a deadly terrorist attack on Wednesday.
No fewer than 200 residents were reportedly killed by the assailants during the invasion, which plunged the affected communities into mourning and widespread panic.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq disclosed this to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said President Tinubu gave the armed forces a clear marching order to move in, flush out the attackers, and ensure the full restoration of peace and normalcy in the area.
According to the governor, the President’s response was swift, decisive, and reassuring, culminating in the establishment of Operation Savannah Shield, a special military operation aimed at stabilising the region.
“I came to brief Mr President on what happened in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State and also to thank him for his prompt intervention,” AbdulRazaq said.
“The establishment of Operation Savannah Shield will go a long way in deterring further attacks and restoring calm to the affected communities.”
He expressed confidence that the situation was already being brought under control, revealing that the commander of Operation Savannah Shield had reported in Ilorin, the state capital, and immediately commenced operations.
“As I speak to you, the first commander of Operation Savannah Shield arrived in Kwara State today and has hit the ground running,” the governor said. “We are relying on the military to do what they do best.”
Reassuring the people of Kwara State, AbdulRazaq reiterated the President’s firm directive to the armed forces.
“Mr President has ordered the military to move in, clean up the area, and ensure that peace and calm are fully restored,” he said.
The development comes amid growing national concern over rising insecurity and renewed calls for tougher military action against terrorists and bandits across the country.
