The Kwara State College of Nursing Sciences, Oke-Ode, has temporarily relocated its staff and students to Ilorin following escalating bandit attacks in parts of Kwara South.
The decision, approved by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, came after gunmen invaded Oke-Ode last Sunday, killing 12 residents and abducting several others during an early morning raid that plunged the community into fear.
Confirming the relocation, the institution’s spokesperson, AbdulHafeez Oyewole, said academic activities had resumed at the Institute of Technology mini campus of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin.
“Our priority is the safety of students and staff. By moving to Ilorin, we are ensuring that learning continues without putting lives at risk,” Oyewole stated.
The Provost of the college, Alhaji Olanrewaju AbdulQaudri, who supervised the relocation exercise, described the move as a difficult but necessary decision in light of the security threats facing the host community.
“This was not an easy choice, but it was the only way to protect our community after the tragic killings in Oke-Ode,” he said.
AbdulQaudri urged staff to remain committed to their duties and advised students to adapt to the temporary environment, maintain discipline, and remain security-conscious.
During an inspection of the new facilities, the provost assured students that management would continue to provide necessary support despite the challenges of operating away from the college’s permanent site.
He expressed optimism that peace would soon return to Oke-Ode, allowing the institution to resume normal academic activities in its original location.
“We are hopeful that these difficult times will pass, and once calm is restored, the college will return home stronger,” AbdulQaudri added.
The relocation highlights the growing impact of insecurity on educational institutions across Kwara South, where repeated attacks and abductions have disrupted community life and learning.
