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 situation in the district.
The chairmen, 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 said the decision was painful but necessary.
They said they arrived the decision after an extensive stakeholders’ engagement and review.
“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 Kwara 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 district.
“The decision will be reviewed periodically and the markets would be reopened once a conductive 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 adhering to long-term coordinated and structured security advisement over and above short-term inconveniences.
“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,” the chairmen said.
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state has however appealed to the state government to urgently intervene on the closure.
The state chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Shehu Garba, made the appeal in a statement.
He said the closure without the knowledge of traditional rulers, leaders and operators was not justified.
