Insecurity: Osun Government Prioritises Protection Of Lives And Property Engages Security Agencies, Stakeholders
…. Urge Residents To Be Security Conscious…
Osun State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property of citizens in the state from insecurity, by organising a high-level security workshop focused on strengthening border across the state communities.
This is as the government of Governor Ademola Adeleke urged all in the state to be security conscious, while going about their activities.
The Special Adviser to Governor on Security, Barr. Samuel Ojo disclosed the determination of the government to prevent criminal infiltration and to strengthen security in Osun State borders towns/communities and the state in general.
He made this known at the workshop which brought together government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders to discuss measures aimed at curbing criminal activities at border towns/communities, so as to check the influx of criminals and bandits.
The security workshop organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters highlighted intelligence reports indicating a potential rise in kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal mining activities due to the influx of criminal elements from crisis-ridden northern states.
Barr Ojo emphasized the need for heightened surveillance and collaborative efforts to prevent Osun from becoming a safe haven for criminals, while stating that all hands must be on deck to ensure adequate security of Osun state to maintain its position as one of the most peaceful States in Nigeria.
“As security operatives intensify efforts in the North, some criminals are shifting their operations to states with thriving economic activities, including mining hubs in Ijeshaland and other urban centers in Osun. It is imperative to enhance security through covert operations and community engagement to prevent these threats,”.
He further stressed that “the fundamental duty of any government is to protect its citizens, referencing Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution, which states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”
“Security is a collective responsibility. We must all work together to protect our communities from criminal infiltration. The government is committed to providing the necessary resources, but community participation is essential in ensuring a safer Osun State,” Barr. Ojo emphasized.
He commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his unwavering commitment to security, describing him as a visionary leader whose policies have strengthened peace and stability in Osun State.
As the state continues to implement these security measures, Osun remains committed to maintaining its reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, – he stated.
In his remarks, the commissioner for Information and public enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi stressed that the issue of security cannot be taking with levity by any serious government.
According to him, “I can assure the participants that whatever the outcome of the workshop through the communique will be extensively discussed at the Exco meeting for proper implementation.”
Osun State is strategically located at the heart of the South West and shares boundaries with Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, and Kwara States. This geographical positioning makes it vulnerable to criminal incursions, particularly in remote border communities.
The workshop identified twelve key border towns as potential entry points for criminal activities: Ila-Odo (bordering Kwara), Owena (bordering Ondo), Imesi-Ile (bordering Ekiti), Ifetedo (bordering Ondo and Ogun), Araromi-Owu (bordering Ogun), Esa-Oke (bordering Ekiti), Ikoyi-Asejire (bordering Oyo), Ife-Odan (bordering Oyo), Ifon-Osun (bordering Oyo), Iwo (bordering Oyo), Ikeji-Ile (bordering Ekiti) and Oke-Ila (bordering Ekiti and Kwara).
To combat these security challenges, ACP Akande Tajudeen, a resource person at the workshop, outlined key strategies for fortifying Osun’s border communities, including:
1. Provision of Patrol Vehicles – Enhancing police mobility for rapid response.
2. Increased Funding for Security Agencies – Strengthening law enforcement capacity.
3. Community Involvement – Engaging traditional rulers, religious leaders, and local vigilante groups in security efforts.
4. Deployment of Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) – Boosting security presence in high-risk areas.
5. Periodic Stakeholder Meetings – Ensuring continuous engagement between security agencies and local communities.
6. Conflict Resolution Committees – Addressing farmer-herder clashes and land disputes through mediation.
ACP Tajudeen also assured all that the Osun State Police Command is actively working to prevent cross-border crimes and maintain law and order in affected areas.
The workshop concluded with a strong appeal for collaboration among government agencies, security operatives, traditional rulers, and residents to tackle security challenges effectively.
At the security workshop, the Service Chiefs in their goodwill remarks assures the government of partnership in tackling insecurity and ensuring safe environment for residents in line with their objectives and duties.