Kwara South Residents Block Dangote Trucks Over Alleged Links To Bandits

Residents of Igbaja community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State on Wednesday staged a protest, blocking Dangote trucks from passing through their town over alleged links between some of the company’s drivers and armed bandits operating in the region.

The protesters accused certain Dangote drivers of helping bandits by transporting ammunition and delivering ransom payments. They claimed that while poor villagers and farmers are frequently kidnapped, the drivers are often spared, raising suspicion of collusion.

Videos from the protest showed angry residents insisting that Dangote trucks would no longer be allowed into their communities until urgent action is taken. They alleged that in towns such as Babanla, Oreke, Segbe, and Alabe, repeated attacks have forced residents to flee, leaving communities deserted while Dangote trucks continue to move freely through the affected areas.

Community leaders, supported by Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Femi Yusuf, resolved to enforce the blockade, saying the situation had reached a breaking point.

One protester said their people could no longer sleep in peace as kidnappings had become rampant. Another alleged that some truck drivers were directly involved in collecting ransom on behalf of bandits.

“We are not fighting them; we are only asking them to turn back. Our communities are bleeding, our people are being killed and kidnapped. Kwara South is in danger, and we need urgent help,” a resident said.

Efforts to get a reaction from Dangote Industries were unsuccessful. The company’s Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Tony Chiejina, promised to respond but had not done so at the time of filing this report.

The protest comes amid a wave of insecurity that has forced hundreds of residents in Kwara South to abandon their homes. Many, including women and children, have been seen leaving with their belongings, seeking refuge in safer areas.