Osun govt approves joint security task force over terror threats
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
The Osun State Government has approved the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force (JTF) to strengthen security operations and improve the state’s response to emerging threats to lives and property.
The decision was taken at the State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Ademola Adeleke and held on Wednesday, with the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, presiding over the meeting.
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Ibrahim Zungura, attended the meeting in person alongside other commanders of security agencies.
The state government also assured residents of its readiness to provide the necessary logistics to ensure the effective take-off and operation of the Joint Security Task Force.
While opening the meeting, Adewusi conveyed the governor’s goodwill to the security commanders and commended them for their efforts in managing recent security challenges.
He urged the commanders not to relent in their duties, particularly in view of the recent security alerts and emerging threats in the state.
The Deputy Governor, who was accompanied by the Attorney-General of the state, Hon. Wole Jimi-Bada Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina and Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr Samuel Ojo, said the governor remained committed to providing further support for security agencies to effectively protect residents.
He also called on traditional rulers to continue providing local security oversight and supporting security agencies in maintaining peace in their communities.
The council, after several hours of deliberation, reassured residents that Osun remained safe and secure, while urging them not to allow the recent security alerts to create unnecessary panic.
It, however, advised residents to remain vigilant, particularly around churches, mosques and schools, and urged relevant stakeholders to put additional security measures in place around their premises.
The council also appealed to members of the public to promptly share useful intelligence with security agencies to help prevent possible attacks by suspected terrorists and bandits.
The Nigeria Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, was directed to maintain a 24-hour red alert across the state in response to the security threats.
The meeting also resolved that the Ministry of Justice, the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) should work closely to ensure that suspects arrested in connection with security-related offences are properly investigated and prosecuted without unnecessary delay.
The council commended the new Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, for introducing policing reforms since assuming office and for personally attending the security council meeting.
