Calm has been stabilised in Lafiagi, Kwara State, following a visit by a high-level government security delegation on Monday, prompted by early morning unrest that led to an attack on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) office and a thwarted attempt to set fire to the Emir's palace.

The delegation's visit addressed tensions sparked by various community issues, notably security operations targeting suspected drug traffickers, which had incited protesters to target the NDLEA office and seize exhibits.

Protesters, reportedly reacting to recent anti-drug trafficking arrests, damaged the NDLEA office and attempted to attack the palace of the Emir of Lafiagi, citing his perceived inaction in halting the NDLEA's operations.

The security delegation included Commissioner of Police CP Ojo Adekimi, Brigade Commander Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters Alhaji Muhyideen Aliu. They were welcomed by local government chairman Abdullahi Bello, Development Officer for Edu Alhaji Haruna Likpata, Commissioner for Youth Development Shehu Ndanusa Usman, and Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission Bello Taoheed Abubakar.

"The protest in the morning was related to recent arrests of suspected drug dealers. The protesters took advantage of the anxiety around recent security breaches to launch an attack on the NDLEA office, where they burnt three vehicles and motorcycles, released three suspects, and carted away substances seized from the dealers. They also attempted to attack the Emir's Palace because, according to them, he did not stop the NDLEA from arresting the suspected drug dealers and smokers," Alhaji Aliu said.

"This is sheer criminality, and we condemn it totally. The soldiers and other security forces have been able to restore calm in Lafiagi town. We also visited the palace, where we addressed everyone on the need to maintain peace and order.

"They thanked His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the quick intervention. Normalcy has returned, and further security deployments have been made by the police and the army.

"It is important to state that no life was lost in the Monday morning incident. We caution people against taking laws into their own hands."