The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, declaring that it will spare no cost in protecting residents and no effort in flushing out criminal elements from every part of the state.
This assurance followed an Expanded Security Council Meeting held on Wednesday and presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde. The meeting had in attendance members of the State Executive Council, service commanders, local government chairmen and traditional rulers.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), said the government remains fully committed to maintaining peace and security despite the nationwide challenges of crime.
Owoseni disclosed that the state has intensified efforts to ensure that patrol teams are stationed at strategic points across Oyo, alongside joint visibility patrols and swift deployment squads aimed at deterring criminal activities.
He added that Oyo State is not under any threat of banditry, noting that all identified flashpoints would be thoroughly cleared to ensure criminals “do not have the last laugh.”
The Special Adviser further revealed that the state, in partnership with the military, is currently combing the Old Oyo National Park—which stretches into Kwara and Niger states—to prevent bandits and terrorists from infiltrating the area.
On the integration of non-state actors into the state’s security framework, Owoseni highlighted existing partnerships, including the Mogajis Initiative in Ibadan chaired by the Olubadan, and the voluntary policing sector coordinated through local governments.
He noted that the initiative has strengthened grassroots security monitoring and improved community vigilance. He also disclosed ongoing collaborations with neighbouring states—Ogun, Lagos, and Osun—to secure shared borders, with plans to bring Kwara State into the fold.
Speaking on mining activities, Owoseni emphasized that all miners licensed by the Federal Government must comply with Oyo State’s regulations, engage local communities and traditional rulers, and prioritize environmental safety. Any miner who violates state guidelines, he warned, will not be allowed to operate.
He commended the synergy among security agencies in Oyo State and urged residents to play their part by reporting suspicious activities through the 615 emergency number.
Also speaking, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Biodun Aikomo, and the Chairman of Local Government Chairmen, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, assured that the government would continue to protect the rights of citizens in line with the law.
The Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers, pledged continued support for government efforts to secure communities.
Among those present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye; other traditional rulers, service commanders and local government chairmen.
