Rt. Hon. Zakari Mohammed, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Kwara State, has welcomed the release of members of the Yashikira Royal Family who were abducted during the terrorist attack on the Emir of Yashikira’s palace, describing their safe return as a major relief for the community.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Thursday, Mohammed said the victims’ release had brought joy not only to the Yashikira Emirate but also to residents of Baruten Local Government Area, Kwara North Senatorial District, Kwara State, and Nigerians who desire peace.
He congratulated the Emir of Yashikira, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ambassador Umar Sarki Usman, the Royal Family, and the people of Yashikira and Baruten for their resilience and steadfastness throughout the period of captivity.
The ADC governorship candidate also commended security agencies for their professionalism and dedication, while appreciating both the Federal Government and the Kwara State Government for their efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
Mohammed, however, warned that the release of the abducted family members should not signal the end of government intervention, expressing concern over the growing activities of the Lakurawa terrorist group, which he alleged has established operational bases in the Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding forests.
He called on the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Kwara State Government and security agencies, to establish permanent and well-equipped military and other security formations across vulnerable communities in Baruten, Kaiama, and other parts of Kwara North.
According to him, terrorists must be completely driven out, their camps dismantled, and the Kainji Lake National Park reclaimed from criminal elements to guarantee lasting peace.
Mohammed stressed that residents deserve to live without fear, adding that sustained security presence, effective intelligence gathering, and coordinated operations remain essential to permanently eliminate terrorist networks operating in the area.
He also prayed for continued protection of traditional institutions, the safety of security personnel, comfort for victims of insecurity, and lasting peace across Yashikira Emirate, Kwara State, and Nigeria.
