A member of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association has been arrested in Kwara State after he was allegedly found in possession of a rifle reportedly issued by the Office of the National Security Adviser. Sources said the suspect was apprehended in Kwara South, a region plagued by frequent terrorist attacks and kidnappings. “The man was seen with a rifle said to have been given to members of Miyetti Allah to secure parts of Kwara State,” a source told SaharaReporters.
The arrest has heightened concerns among residents over arms proliferation and the role of non-state actors in security. The Kwara State Police Command has not issued an official statement. This follows earlier state government clarification that armed men recently apprehended were Miyetti Allah members in a federal security operation coordinated by the NSA’s office.
A state official confirmed the arrested individuals were part of a Joint Task Force-style arrangement following local attacks. “Under their security setup, they use both recognised officers and a JTF which includes members of Miyetti Allah,” said gubernatorial aide Ibrahim Abdulateef. The Chief Press Secretary urged calm, calling for careful leadership amid tensions, stating, “This is a time for careful leadership, not reckless accusations.”