Chairmen of seven local government areas in Kwara South Senatorial District, have ordered the immediate closure of all cattle markets within the district.
The council chairmen said the development was sequel to the prevailing security realities in the district.
The local government chairmen include Abdulrasheed Yusuf (Ifelodun), Hon. Benjamin Jolayemi (Isin), Hon. Azeez Yakub( Irepodun ), Hon. Awelewa Gabriel (Ekiti), Hon. James Fadipe of (Oke-Ero), Hon. Sulyman Olatunji (Offa) and Hon. Akanbi Olarewaju (Oyun).
In a joint statement signed by the council chairmen, they described the decision as painful but necessary.
They said the 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 6pm 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 district.
“The decision will be reviewed periodically, and the markets would be reopened once a conductive environment is guaranteed,” the chairmen said.
While acknowledging and regretting the economic impact of the decision on the people, the chairmen said they have chosen to prioritise the safety of lives and properties and adhering to long-term coordinated and structured security advise 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 corporative with governmental efforts and security operatives towards collaboratively guaranteeing the return of lasting peace to our land,” they said.
However, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state has appealed to the state government to urgently intervene on the closure of cattle markets in Kwara south.
The state chairman of MACBAN, Alh Shehu Garba who made the appeal in a statement said the proposed closure without the knowledge of the traditional rulers, leaders and operators, is not justified.
Garba said, “Closing the Kara markets without prior notice at this time will cripple businesses and add to the economic challenges affecting families in the locality, the state and the country in general.”
He called for the immediate reversal of the council chairmen’s decision in the interest of justice and fairness.
