The Kwara State Government, over the weekend, gave directives for the immediate relocation of the staff and students of the State College of Nursing Sciences, Oke Ode (KWCONOO), to Ilorin. This decision was taken following the persistent security challenges gripping parts of the Kwara South and North senatorial districts.

The move is strongly suspected to be a direct response to the recent bandit attacks in Oke Ode town, which occurred last week. Those attacks tragically resulted in the deaths of over 15 people, with numerous residents also being kidnapped.

State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, had paid a condolence visit last Friday to the people and the victim's families in the ancient town.

During his visit, Governor AbdulRazaq assured the residents of enhanced protection measures aimed at restoring peace and fostering development in Oke Ode.

However, despite the Governor's guarantee, the state school of nursing within the Oke Ode community was subsequently moved to Ilorin.

A statement confirming the action was issued by the management of KWCONOO, signed by AbdulHafeez Oyewole, Press Secretary for KWCONOO. The statement confirmed that the institution is now operating temporarily from the Institute of Technology (I.O.T), Mini Campus of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, following Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's approval of the necessary move.

The relocation, supervised by Provost Alhaji Olanrewaju AbdulQaudri, was completed between last Monday and last Wednesday.

The statement reads: "Academic activities have since resumed fully, with lectures ongoing for students of Nursing and Midwifery.

Addressing staff on the development, the Provost described the move as a necessary response to the emergency situation in Oke-Ode.

He urged teaching and non-teaching staff to remain committed despite the change in environment, while also charging students to adapt positively, maintain discipline, and stay security conscious.

During a tour of the new lecture halls, AbdulQaudri assured students of management's continued support and encouraged them to remain focused on their studies.

The Provost expressed optimism that peace would soon return to Oke-Ode, paving the way for the College's eventual return to its permanent site.