Former Kwara State governor and APC leader in the state, Senator Bukola Saraki, yesterday visited victims of the recent unrest in Ilorin and condemned the destruction of lives and property, saying trouble makers must not be allowed to disrupt peace in the state. According to him, there is no justification whatsoever for violence, and unemployment should not be an excuse by youths to take up arms and terrorise people.

Suspected Indian hemp smokers recently raided Agbarere and Ita Ajia in Ilorin to avenge the raid of their hideout by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Three people died in the incident while six houses were burnt and 58 vehicles were destroyed. The state government set up a task force comprising the police, civil defence, soldiers and vigilantes who arrested over 200 suspected thugs.

Saraki donated N3.5 million to the victims and praised measures so far taken by the state government in conjunction with security agencies. He also paid a condolence visit to the Mogaji Are of Ilorin, Alhaji Aremu Zubari, whose car was damaged in the fracas.

Saraki advised parents to call their children and wards to order and prevent them from indulging in violent activities.

"I believe violence is totally unacceptable in any society. We know the challenges of unemployment. It is still no excuse for this kind of skirmish. This is a society and community known for peace and tranquillity. We must continue to protect that image. That is the image we inherited from our fathers and forefathers. And it is the responsibility of parents to ensure that our children understand that Kwara is peace-loving environment," he said.