Adeleke Seeks Military Support to Tackle Rising Security Threats in the Osun
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Governor Ademola Adeleke has appealed to the Nigerian Army to strengthen security operations in Osun State by establishing military checkpoints on major roads to curb the influx of armed criminals and prevent the spread of insecurity into the state.
The governor made the appeal on Saturday while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Waidi Shaibu during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Osogbo. He also reiterated the call at the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruits of the Nigerian Army, where he was represented by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi.
Adeleke said although Osun has remained one of the most peaceful states in the country, recent developments have raised serious security concerns that require urgent intervention.
“While Osun State has remained one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, recent developments have posed serious security concerns which deserve urgent attention. Sadly, our enviable record of peaceful coexistence is being threatened by orchestrated political violence that is alien to our culture and traditions.
“We have witnessed targeted attacks and killings of members of the Accord Party allegedly perpetrated by armed political thugs associated with the opposition APC,” the governor said.
He disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police had already directed the enforcement of law and order in the state through a delegation led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West.
“Just last Thursday, I received a delegation from the Inspector-General of Police led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West. The delegation conveyed the Inspector-General’s directive for strict enforcement of law and order to end political violence in Osun State. We look forward to seeing outcomes that will restore public confidence,” he added.
The governor identified the proliferation of illegal arms, the alleged influx of suspected bandits into parts of Osun East Senatorial District under the guise of mining activities, and the growing threat of kidnappings in border communities as the major security challenges confronting the state.
“The increasing influx and proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition into Osun State poses a grave threat to public safety and has the potential to escalate criminal activities if left unchecked.
“Credible intelligence available to our government indicates the influx of suspected bandits into parts of Osun East Senatorial District under the guise of mining activities. This disturbing development raises serious security concerns that require proactive military attention before they evolve into a more dangerous challenge.
“Osun State shares boundaries with both Oyo and Kwara states, where kidnapping has become a major security challenge. The activities of kidnappers in these neighbouring states are gradually spilling into some of our border communities, making it imperative for us to strengthen security,” Adeleke said.
To address the emerging threats, the governor urged the Nigerian Army to establish military checkpoints along strategic routes across the state, including Ila–Ikirun Road, Ikirun–Kwara Border Road, Gbongan–Osogbo Road, Iwo–Osogbo Road, Ijebu-Jesa–Ekiti Road, Ife–Sekona Road, Ogbomoso–Ejigbo Road and Ilesa–Osogbo Road.
According to him, the deployment of troops to these locations would improve surveillance, strengthen border security and help prevent criminal elements from gaining access to the state.
Responding, the Chief of Army Staff assured the Osun State Government of the Nigerian Army’s continued partnership in addressing security challenges.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining its operations against banditry, insurgency and other forms of criminality, while pledging continued collaboration with the state to ensure the safety of lives and property.