There is mounting tension across Patigi and parts of Edu Local Government Area in Kwara State, as residents raise the alarm over the unexplained landing of helicopters in the dense Patigi forest — a development many fear could be linked to the escalating insecurity in the region.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that helicopters, often arriving under the cover of darkness, have been sighted making repeated landings deep within the forest reserve. The development has stoked fears among locals who suspect the aircraft may be supplying arms and other logistics to criminal elements, particularly kidnappers, operating in the area.
A local vigilante commander, Mohammed Bana, who spoke to our correspondent, described the experience as deeply disturbing.
“We hear the choppers at odd hours, mostly at night. We don’t know their mission or who they’re working for. People are scared. Some believe these helicopters are supplying dangerous items to bandits hiding in the forest,” he said.
Echoing the growing concern, a former member of the Kwara State House of Assembly from Edu LGA, who asked not to be named, confirmed that the issue has been a major point of discussion among local leaders.
“This is not mere gossip. The matter has been raised repeatedly in our community forums. There is growing anxiety that demands prompt and transparent investigation,” he said.
Despite the public outcry, security authorities appear to have a different explanation. The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, has refuted the claims, describing them as unfounded.
“The helicopters observed in the Patigi forest are deployed for aerial surveillance as part of ongoing security operations. Given the sheer size and terrain of the forest, air patrols are necessary to monitor criminal activity,” Ojo stated.
He further assured the public that the current operations would yield results in due course.
“The impact of these measures will become evident within the next few weeks. We urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement,” he added.
