The chairmen of the seven local government councils in Kwara South Senatorial District have ordered the immediate closure of all cattle markets within the district due to insecurity.

The chairmen are Femi Yusuf (Ifelodun), Benjamin Jolayemi (Isin), Azeez Yakub (Irepodun), Gabriel Olawale (Ekiti), James Fadipe (Oke-Ero), Sulyman Olatunji (Offa), and Akanbi Kamar Olarewaju (Oyun).

In a joint statement on Friday, the seven local government chairmen said the painful but necessary decision was arrived at after an extensive stakeholders’ engagement and reviews.

The statement said the measure was a proactive step to address emerging security concerns and ensure the safety of residents, traders, and commuters within the district.

“While the invading criminals have been operationally decimated in the last few weeks, cleanup operations by the military and hybrid operatives are still ongoing.

”Therefore, all Kara (cattle) 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 p.m. on market days,” the chairmen said.

According to the statement, 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.

”We are also adhering to long-term coordinated and structured security advisement over and above short-term inconveniences,” the chairs said.

They reassured residents of their collaboration with the state government to ensure peace is restored.

”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,” the statement read.

(NAN)