The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state, particularly in areas facing security challenges.
Speaking after a security stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan on Wednesday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), stated that the government is stepping up efforts to combat criminal activities in Oyo township, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and parts of Ibadan.
He explained that the meeting, held at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, was aimed at reviewing security strategies and strengthening measures to curb banditry and other crimes. A key resolution, he noted, was the integration of community leaders and grassroots members into the state’s security framework.
Owoseni emphasized that with the collaboration of security agencies and neighboring states, criminals would find no safe haven in Oyo State.
“The service commanders have reviewed the security situation, and we have identified a resurgence of criminal activities in some parts of the state,” he said. “To address this, we are strengthening our security architecture by involving non-state actors such as vigilante groups, Agbekoya, hunters, OPC members, and Soludero groups in intelligence gathering and operations.”
He also highlighted recent military operations in Old Oyo National Park to flush out criminal elements, including illegal miners, and noted ongoing collaborations with Kwara and Ogun states to prevent cross-border criminal activities.
Owoseni urged residents to remain security-conscious and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.
“We want the people to know that we have what it takes to prevent and respond effectively to all acts of criminality,” he assured. “There is no cause for alarm, as security agencies in Oyo State are constantly refining their strategies to keep the state safe.”
He clarified that the meeting was not linked to the upcoming coronation of the Alaafin of Oyo but was part of a broader security review.
The meeting was attended by security chiefs, local government chairmen, traditional leaders, and community representatives from the Oyo Federal Constituency.
