Nigerian police officers deployed for joint security operations in Kwara State have raised serious concerns over the non-payment of their operational allowances for about three months, warning that the situation is affecting their morale and ability to function effectively.
The officers, drawn from different states and working alongside other security agencies in counter-insurgency duties, said they were deployed to tackle armed groups operating in parts of the state. However, they claim their welfare has been neglected, leaving them in difficult living and working conditions.
According to them, the delay in payment has pushed many personnel into hardship, with some warning that they may be unable to continue participating in ongoing operations if nothing changes soon.
The deployment is part of a coordinated security effort involving police mobile units and the military aimed at addressing violent attacks linked to armed groups operating in the region.
Reports indicate that the armed group known as Lakurawa, allegedly linked to extremist networks in the Sahel region, has been active across parts of northern Nigeria, including areas around Kwara State. The group has been associated with repeated attacks, displacement of residents, and kidnappings in affected communities.
Over the past year, several communities in Kwara North and South have reportedly suffered heavy casualties and mass displacement, with many residents fleeing to safer locations such as Ilorin.
Some of the officers expressed frustration over what they described as poor welfare conditions, including lack of food, accommodation challenges, and limited operational support.
They further alleged that the absence of adequate supplies and delayed allowances has severely affected morale, with some warning they may withdraw from engagements if the situation continues.
The concerns come amid renewed attacks in some rural communities, with security personnel reportedly facing significant risks while attempting to contain armed activity in the region.
