All cattle markets, popularly called Kara Markets, have been shut down in all seven local government areas of Kwara State.
This is as a result of the activities of bandits and killer herdsmen that have taken over a large chunk of the Kwara South Senatorial District, killing and maiming innocent people.
The decision to shut down the markets, being used as a cover-up by the killer herdsmen, was taken on Friday by all the local government chairmen to allow security agents to comb the affected areas.
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The chairmen, in a statement jointly signed noted,” Sequel to the prevailing security realities in Kwara South Senatorial District, we the Council local government Chairmen, under the aegis of the Forum of Seven Local Government Chairmen in Kwara South Senatorial District, have ordered the immediate closure of all Kara (cattle) markets within the District.
“This painful but necessary decision was arrived at after an extensive stakeholders engagement and reviews.
“While the invading criminals have been operationally decimated in the last few weeks, clean-up operations by the military and hybrid operatives are still ongoing.
“Therefore, all Kara markets have been ordered to shut down with immediate effect from Friday, September 19, 2025, until further notice. All other produce markets are hereby directed to close by 6:00 pm on market days.
“This decision, taken collectively by the Executive Chairmen, is part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen the security architecture of the Senatorial District and protect lives and properties.
“This measure is a proactive step, aimed at addressing emerging security concerns and ensuring the safety of residents, traders, and commuters within the District.
“The decision will be reviewed periodically, and the markets will be reopened once a conducive environment is guaranteed.
“While we acknowledge and regret the economic impact of this decision on our people, we’ve chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and properties and adhere to long-term coordinated and structured security advisement over and above short-term inconveniences.
“However, we use this opportunity to reassure residents and indigenes of Kwara South, that the local government councils, in conjunction with the State government and relevant security agencies, are doing everything within their powers to restore a lasting peace to the land.
“We therefore enjoin all and sundry to be cooperative with governmental efforts and security operatives towards collaboratively guaranteeing the return of lasting peace to our land.”
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The signatories were: Executive Chairman, Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hadji Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, Executive Chairman, Isin Local Government Area, Hon. Benjamin Lanre Jolayemi, Executive Chairman, Irepodun Local Government Area, Hon. Azeez Yakub, Executive Chairman, Ekiti Local Government Area, Hon. Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, Executive Chairman, Oke-Ero Local Government Area, Hon. James Fadipe, Executive Chairman, Offa Local Government Area, Hon. Sulyman Olatunji, and Executive Chairman, Oyun Local Government Area, Hon. Akanbi Kamar Olarewaju.
