By Idowu Adebomi
The Ekiti State Government has launched a coordinated security operation across forested and border communities following renewed attacks by bandits in areas adjoining Kogi and Kwara states.
The operation, involving a coalition of security agencies and local operatives, aims to dismantle criminal hideouts and restore peace to vulnerable communities, particularly those along Ekiti’s boundaries with neighboring states.
In recent weeks, abductions and killings linked to banditry have been reported in parts of Ikole and Moba Local Government Areas, raising security concerns among residents.
Deployment and Progress
Confirming the deployment, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Ebenezer Ogundana, stated that the joint operation has made steady progress since its commencement last week. Security forces have moved into forest enclaves around Oke Ako, Irele, and other border communities adjoining Kwara State. Early reports indicate a significant reduction in activity from criminal elements along these corridors.
Ogundana explained that the operation involves the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, Amotekun Corps, as well as local vigilante groups and hunters. “It is an ongoing operation and remains very active,” Ogundana said. “Since the teams moved into the forests last week, we have been able to reduce pressure from bandits along these corridors. We are clearing the areas step by step, especially our border communities.”
He emphasized that sustained security presence is essential to make the affected areas uninhabitable for bandits.
Government Commitment and Community Cooperation
Ogundana reaffirmed the state government’s commitment, under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to protecting lives and property across Ekiti State. Residents in affected areas have been urged to remain calm and provide credible intelligence to security agencies. “People should alert security agencies if they notice unusual movements or suspicious activities, rather than spreading unverified information on social media,” he said. He added that efforts are underway to allow farmers to safely return to their farms and for economic activities to resume.
Security operations are ongoing across the Ikole axis and are expected to extend to other local government areas. The government has pledged to continue the offensive until lasting peace is restored in Ekiti State’s border communities, including those adjoining Kogi State.
Residents have been advised to remain patient and law-abiding as the sustained security presence stabilizes the affected areas.