By Ismail Azeez
The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State Chapter, Hon. Idowu Abiodun, has given reasons why the local council chairmen donated 300 motorcycles to security agencies across the state.
Speaking during the distribution of motorcycles to the Police, DSS, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, vigilante groups, hunters, and local/community security outfits, at the State Police Headquarters, Osogbo, on Tuesday, Abiodun noted that the donation is a clear demonstration of their unwavering commitment to the safety, security, and well-being of the people.
The ALGON Chairman noted that the donation is aimed at strengthening community policing and ensuring that no part of the state is left vulnerable, stating that security remains the bedrock of any meaningful development.
He attributed the initiative success to the growing autonomy granted to local governments under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, “the motorcycles we are distributing today will enhance mobility, improve response time, and enable our security agencies to access difficult terrains, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.”
“I want to commend the dedication and sacrifices of our security personnel. Your courage, resilience, and commitment to duty continue to inspire confidence among our citizens. We recognize the risks you take daily, and today’s gesture is a token of our appreciation and support for your invaluable service. However, let me emphasize that security is a collective responsibility.”
“While government and security agencies play leading roles, the cooperation of the public is essential. I urge all residents of Osun State to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and supportive of our security agencies by providing timely and useful information.”
“I am proud to affirm that local governments remain the closest tier of government to the people. We understand the peculiar security challenges within our communities, and we are determined to support all necessary efforts to address them effectively.”
“It is important to stress that the success of this initiative is a direct product of the growing autonomy of local governments. When local governments are empowered to manage their resources, set their priorities, and respond swiftly to the needs of their people, the impact is immediate and far-reaching,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Osun State Commissioner of Police (CP), CP Ibrahim Gotan called for collaboration to combat the security challenges in the state.
CP Gotan commended ALGON for the impactful intervention and assured them of the judicious use of the motorcycles.
He aded further that, “Security is a collective responsibility, the challenges we face today require collaboration, partnership, and sustained support from all stakeholders.”
On the utilization of the donated itemzs, the CP nlted that the motorcycle will undoubtedly enhance operational capacity, particularly in hard-to-reach areas, and will improve response time and patrol courage.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, the IGP, and other security agencies present here, I sincerely thank ALGON for this thoughtful, impactful intervention. Be assured that this motorcycle will be used judiciously.”
“Finally, I wish to thank President Bola Tinubu, for making this laudable gesture a reality by giving all the LG there autonomy,” the Commissioner added.