The Oyo State Government has raised alarm over the rising wave of banditry and violent attacks across several parts of the state, particularly in Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun, and the outskirts of Ibadan. In response to the growing security threats, the state has convened a high-level security stakeholders’ meeting to reassess its strategies and reinforce measures to curb criminal activities.
Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Seyi Makinde, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday. He revealed that the government is deeply concerned about the resurgence of violent crimes, prompting an urgent review of security measures to protect lives and property.
According to the statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (Rtd), emphasized the importance of integrating community leaders and grassroots members into the state’s security framework. This strategy aims to bridge the gap between security operatives and local communities, ensuring swift intelligence gathering and better cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
“We have always prided ourselves on being one of the safest states in the country, thanks to the collaborative efforts of security agencies and the unwavering support of Governor Makinde. However, recent incidents in Oyo Township, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, and Ibarapa necessitate an urgent reassessment of our security strategies,” Owoseni stated.
To bolster security efforts, the government has mobilized a coalition of state and non-state actors, including local vigilante groups, Agbekoyas, hunters, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) members, and Soluderos, to reinforce security in the affected areas. This integrated approach, approved by the governor, is expected to create better synergy between formal security forces and local defense outfits.
Owoseni further revealed that security agencies have already conducted extensive combing operations in suspected criminal hideouts. “Just last week, the military carried out an intensive clearance operation in the Old Oyo Park after intelligence reports suggested the infiltration of the area by criminal elements, particularly illegal miners. The Garrison Commander led the operation up to our border with Kwara State,” he noted.
Recognizing the transborder nature of criminal activities, Oyo State is also strengthening collaboration with neighboring states, particularly Ogun and Kwara. Owoseni referenced a recent viral video where residents of Ogunmakin, an Ogun State community bordering Oyo, raised alarm over an infiltration by criminal elements.
“Although Ogunmakin is in Ogun State, we immediately shared intelligence with the security agencies in Ogun. However, we are not leaving the situation entirely in their hands because we share boundaries. We have what it takes to prevent and respond to criminal activities effectively,” he assured.
The Special Adviser urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing that the state’s security apparatus is actively working to ensure the safety of all citizens.
The recent surge in crime follows a wave of attacks in January, where suspected armed herders stormed private hostels at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso, looting valuables and allegedly killing two individuals.
According to SaharaReporters, the attackers invaded communities around the Stadium Area of Ogbomoso, raiding hotels and hostels housing thousands of LAUTECH students. Witnesses described how the assailants, armed with guns and machetes, forcibly broke into rooms, stealing expensive phones, laptops, and other valuables.
Multiple sources confirmed that at least two people were killed during the invasion, which occurred near the Under G area of the town.
Despite these challenges, the Oyo State Government maintains that there is no cause for panic. The Service Commanders are already fine-tuning their strategies to curb the rising insecurity. Owoseni reassured residents that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to put an end to these criminal activities.
“We will not relent in our efforts to protect our people. The collaborative efforts of security agencies, local vigilance groups, and the government will ensure that Oyo State remains safe and secure,” he concluded.
As Oyo State battles to reclaim its reputation as a haven of peace, all eyes remain on the government’s next steps in the fight against banditry and violent crimes.
PIONEER NEWS 