President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday ordered a comprehensive security cordon on forests in Kwara and other states following recent killings and abductions by armed bandits.

Mr Tinubu instructed the Nigerian Air Force to expand air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara, where terrorists were believed to be hiding, a statement by his media aide, Sunday Dare, said.

“President Tinubu directed the air force to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara State, where it is believed the terrorists are hiding. They are to maintain a 24-hour surveillance and link up with the boots on the ground,” the statement read.

Mr Tinubu said the directive also applies to Kebbi and Niger States, urging communities to provide timely information about any strange movements or activities to aid the work of the security forces.

The directive came amid a wave of attacks in different parts of the country, raising widespread concerns about the safety of residents.

Peoples Gazette reported that 38 church worshippers were abducted in Eruku, Ekiti LGA of Kwara, last week. The captives were later rescued on Sunday, following the combined efforts of the military and the state security service.

On Monday, armed bandits also stormed the Isapa community in the same local government, kidnapping no fewer than eleven residents.