Tensions are rising in Kwara State after the arrest of youth activist Musa Saidu Tsaragi, coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement. He was detained shortly after leading a peaceful protest against kidnappings and banditry in his hometown.
Saidu had organized a youth march in Tsaragi to call attention to worsening insecurity. Protesters demanded stronger action from authorities, saying kidnappings and killings had displaced many families. Some demonstrators also called for the removal of Fulani settlers, whom they blamed for the violence.
The day after the protest, Saidu was summoned to the palace of the Emir of Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa Goshi II. Witnesses say palace guards harassed him before the Emir ordered police to arrest him, accusing him of inciting unrest.
The arrest has sparked debate across Kwara. Supporters argue Saidu acted within his constitutional right to protest peacefully. Critics fear his message could fuel ethnic tension in an already fragile community.
Northern Kwara has faced worsening insecurity this year. Reports indicate that more than 50 kidnappings have occurred in Edu Local Government Area alone. Authorities claim to have arrested suspects, but residents say attacks still happen almost every week.
The detention of Musa Saidu Tsaragi highlights the struggle between youth activists, traditional rulers, and government forces. His case has added urgency to discussions about freedom of expression, ethnic relations, and security enforcement in Nigeria.
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