Residents of Owa-Kajola in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have appealed to government authorities to deploy military security to safeguard a bulldozer operator whose road-clearing project has been stalled following a deadly bandit attack.

The road, which links Owa-Kajola, Oro-Ago, Alaabe, and Ile Ere, has reportedly served as a hideout for kidnappers in recent weeks. The clearing exercise was initiated by the Ifelodun Local Government to open up the route and dislodge criminal elements believed to be hibernating in the area.

However, the project suffered a major setback on Monday when armed bandits struck, killing a man identified as Brother Yunusa—who had moments earlier bought drinks for the bulldozer operator—and abducting two girls aged between 11 and 15.

Shaken by the attack, the bulldozer operator and his assistants fled the community, leaving the machine abandoned. The owner of the equipment has since demanded its return, while residents fear the project may be abandoned altogether if urgent intervention is not provided.

Speaking to Diamond FM on Wednesday, some residents—who pleaded anonymity for safety reasons—insisted that only military protection could guarantee the operator’s safe return to complete the job. They warned that the hired bulldozer, leased on a limited-time basis, could be withdrawn in less than two weeks if work is not resumed.

“The operator fled with his assistants after the killing and abduction on Monday. His boss is already asking for the machine back. We are appealing to government at all levels to send soldiers to protect the operator and finish this project before the contract expires,” one resident said.

When contacted, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government neither gave assurances on providing security nor a clear timeline for the project’s completion. He also declined comments on the fate of the abducted girls.

The road, first constructed in 1990, has now become a notorious route for bandits, raising urgent concerns among locals about safety and government response.