Kwara Police Take Custody of Vigilante Members Arrested by Army, Later Cleared
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that six vigilante members, previously detained by the Nigerian Army along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, are now in police custody.
In a statement on Tuesday, Police Public Relations Officer Toun Ejire-Adeyemi said the individuals were received on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Following investigations, the vigilantes were verified as legitimate members of a recognized security group and were cleared of any criminal allegations.
According to the statement:
“On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the Kwara State Police Command received six vigilante members who had been arrested by the Nigerian Army along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo LGA of Edo State. The group, traveling in a vehicle registered to Ifelodun Local Government Area, was formally handed over to the command by Brigadier General N. N. Rume, Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, for profiling and investigation.”
“A thorough review confirmed that these individuals are legitimate members of a vigilante group working in partnership with recognized security agencies to tackle banditry and other crimes. Having been exonerated, they were released to their respective leaders.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, reiterated the command’s commitment to collaboration between security agencies and community-based groups, while urging all vigilante outfits to operate strictly within the law.
He assured residents that the Kwara State Police remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all communities in the state.
