Police confirms Army handover, release of vigilantes arrested in Edo

By Lanre Idris Mustapha 

The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the receipt and subsequent release of six vigilante members earlier arrested by the Nigerian Army in Edo State.

The vigilantes were arrested along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State while travelling in a vehicle belonging to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the suspects were formally handed over to the Kwara State Police Command by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N.N. Rume on Wednesday, December 31, 2025,

She explained that the handover was carried out to enable proper investigation and profiling of the arrested individuals.

According to the police, a thorough investigation was conducted after the vigilantes arrived in Kwara State. Findings showed that the six individuals are legitimate members of a recognised vigilante group working in collaboration with security agencies to tackle banditry and other crimes.

The command said the investigation did not establish any criminal involvement by the vigilantes. As a result, they were cleared of all allegations and released to their respective leaders.

The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to cooperation among security agencies and community-based security outfits.

He urged vigilante groups and other local security structures to continue operating within the limits of the law and maintain proper coordination with relevant authorities.

The police assured residents of Kwara State that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.

Members of the public were also encouraged to support security agencies with useful information to enhance safety and crime prevention efforts.