Oyo Govt pledges firm action against banditry, illegal mining
The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling banditry, illegal mining, and other security challenges across the state.
Fatai Owoseni, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, made this declaration in Ibadan on Thursday following a security council meeting chaired by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Addressing journalists, Owoseni stated that the meeting aimed to comprehensively assess the state’s security situation by gathering insights from various levels of leadership.
He issued a stern warning to illegal miners, bandits, undocumented migrants, cultists, and other criminal elements, urging them to leave the state immediately.
According to him, the government remains resolute in taking decisive measures against anyone engaged in unlawful activities within Oyo.
Owoseni also urged residents to remain vigilant regarding security issues, assuring them of swift intervention in response to concerns. He encouraged the public to utilise the toll-free ‘615’ security hotline in case of emergencies.
Providing further details on the council’s resolutions, Commissioner of Police, Johnson Adenola, emphasised that the state would not tolerate ethnic profiling in addressing crime.
“Every Nigerian has the right to reside peacefully in their preferred part of the country,” Adenola stated.
He added that the council had instructed all miners to obtain proper licences before engaging in mining activities within Oyo.
The commissioner further disclosed that the government was examining boundary disputes with the intention of resolving them permanently.
“Additionally, a meeting will be convened after Ramadan to address all pending boundary issues,” he noted.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Olu of Igboora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, assured that traditional leaders would support security agencies in safeguarding their communities.
Meanwhile, Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Abiodun Aikomo, reiterated the government’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and enhancing security measures.
Aikomo affirmed that the state would continue enforcing the Executive Order on safeguarding mining communities from insecurity and exploitation.
The meeting was attended by state executive council members, security chiefs, traditional leaders, and all 33 local government chairmen.
