The Ogun State Government has raised an alarm over the suspected invasion of the South-West region by bandits.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, on Friday.
The statement assured that the government is in full control of its security architecture, with a strong collaboration among security agencies and local security operatives.
The government explained that part of its strategy to secure farmlands includes the deployment of armed security guards at the local level to protect farmers, alongside ongoing security patrols.
It was noted that the state’s current security arrangements had contributed to the peaceful atmosphere across Ogun during the festive season.
The statement read, “The recent reported influx of bandits from the North into the South-West coincided with the recent security meeting of the heads of security agencies in Ogun State. After a careful review of the state of security, the agencies resolved to intensify their efforts to maintain the unprecedented peace and tranquillity the state has enjoyed over the past few months, especially during the recent Christmas and New Year celebrations, ensuring no room for destabilising infiltration by bandits from any part of the country.”
“Our security agencies have revitalised their successful strategies, which include visible presence in all corners of the state, regular patrols, the manning of key vulnerable points and blackspots, intelligence-led operations, community partnerships, and inter-agency cooperation.”
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, particularly unfamiliar individuals in their communities. Commercial farmers have been advised to continue employing armed security guards and escorts for safe access to their farms.
The statement further outlined measures being taken to enhance security, stating: “Local hands have been deployed to assist with surveillance on farms, ensuring safe entry and exit. Farmers are encouraged to improve visibility in and around their properties through lighting and the erection of security towers.”
The government also acknowledged the ongoing collaboration between Ogun and Oyo States in sharing intelligence regarding the movement and activities of suspected bandits in the region.
The statement concluded, “We already have some useful intelligence for a well-coordinated strategy to neutralise any bandits should they enter Ogun State. In pursuing this objective, all ethnic groups in Ogun State – Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Fulani, Edo, Igala, Urhobo, Ebira, and others – are united in a common goal to protect the peace of the state.”
The government also reiterated its warning, saying, “We will take decisive action against anyone who shelters or provides accommodation for bandits, regardless of their ethnic background. Such individuals will face the full force of the law.”