Traditional rulers in Ogbomoso zone have called on the Federal Government to urgently establish a military base in Oriire Local Government Area following escalating attacks by bandits in parts of the zone.
The demand formed part of resolutions reached at a high-level security meeting convened on Tuesday at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye.
Speaking on behalf of the council, the Alapa of Okin-Apa in Surulere Local Government Area, Professor John Akinola Akintola, said the security situation in Ogbomoso has become alarming and requires immediate federal intervention.
The traditional rulers cited the recent killings of forest guards attached to the Nigerian National Park Service at Oloka, as well as last Friday’s abduction of teachers and pupils in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government, as evidence of worsening insecurity.
According to the council, repeated attacks and the displacement of residents from affected communities have created fear across the zone and could negatively affect social and economic activities.
The monarchs appealed to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve a permanent military presence in the area to contain banditry and restore confidence among residents.
They also requested that portions of forest reserves around vulnerable communities be ceded to the Oyo State Government for security occupation and coordinated operations.
The council described the vast forest areas as a growing security threat, noting that criminals now exploit the terrain as hideouts for attacks and abductions.
While condemning the recent attacks, the traditional rulers urged the government to adopt a strategic approach to the crisis, stressing that dialogue should complement security operations in order to avoid collateral damage and protect innocent residents.
The monarchs further warned against collaboration with criminal elements, revealing that reports had linked some Baales with bandits and external attackers operating within the zone.
They vowed that any traditional title holder found aiding criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
The council also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies while avoiding the spread of unverified reports capable of creating panic.
The traditional rulers commended the swift response of security agencies, the Inspector-General of Police and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over efforts to address the situation and reassure affected communities.
