Kwara Residents Reject NYSC Camp Conversion to IDP Facility Amid Security Concerns
Residents and youth groups in Kwara North have voiced strong opposition to the Kwara state government's plan to convert the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area, into an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp for displaced Fulani families. Critics argue that the decision overlooks the fragile security situation in the region, where kidnappings, attacks, and banditry are recurring issues.
Safety Fears Drive Protests in Kwara North
Protests erupted across Kwara North as citizens demanded that the NYSC camp remain dedicated to corps activities and safety. Many residents questioned the logic of repurposing a facility previously deemed unsafe for corps members to host displaced persons. Uthman Lafiagi, a vocal critic, expressed frustration over the silence of political leaders representing the region, stating that the NYSC camp is "the only pride of Kwara North" and should not be converted while orientation activities continue elsewhere.
Audu Jiyah highlighted contradictions in government planning, noting that if Edu was not safe enough for corps members, it should not be considered safe for displaced persons. He advocated for Ilorin as a better and safer alternative for the IDP camp. Caleb, another resident, emphasized that the opposition is rooted in safety fears rather than ethnic bias, stressing that communities in Edu and neighbouring Patigi are already under intense pressure due to insecurity.
Alternative Proposals and Community Appeals
Engineer Abdulfatai Kazeem Adekunle faulted the choice of location, pointing out that Ilorin had been considered suitable for relocating major institutions in the past and should also be ideal for an IDP camp. Other residents proposed alternative solutions, such as reintegrating displaced persons into their states of origin for better coordination. Umar Adamu warned that establishing an IDP facility in an insecure environment could deepen existing threats, exposing communities to worse security situations.
The Lafiagi Emirates Youth Transparency Association (LEYTA) reinforced the opposition, warning that converting the Yikpata camp could worsen the fragile security in Edu LGA, where communities are still recovering from violent attacks. Concerned citizens of Edu Local Government Area issued a formal appeal to the state government, acknowledging humanitarian responsibilities but insisting that host communities must not face additional risks.
Street Protests and Broader Insecurity Issues
The sustained opposition spilled into the streets on Thursday morning, with protesting youths across Kwara North staging demonstrations. They described the decision as symbolic of long-standing neglect and worsening insecurity, demanding urgent government action to address recurring killings, kidnappings, and bandit attacks. The protesters insisted that the NYSC orientation camp be restored to its original purpose and called for safer alternatives, such as facilities in Ilorin.
This controversy comes amid broader insecurity in Kwara state, including a recent disturbing video showing abducted residents from the Woro community in Kaiama LGA, with families appealing for the rescue of about 176 captives. The protests highlight ongoing tensions between humanitarian efforts and local safety concerns in regions affected by conflict and displacement.
