Security Groups Slam South-West Governors Over Lack of Collaboration Against Influx of Bandits

By DAYO ADESULU

With rising concerns over bandits and terrorists fleeing from the North to the South-West, security groups, including the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) and hunters’ associations, have criticized governors in the region for not collaborating with them to secure Yorubaland.

This follows an alarm raised by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, about the influx of fleeing criminals into the South-West. However, despite repeated calls for collaboration, the region’s governors have allegedly failed to respond to offers of support from local security groups.

Gani Adams: “We’re Ready to Secure Yorubaland”

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, expressed frustration over the lack of engagement from state governments. Speaking through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Aderemi, Adams stated that Yorubaland would be “too hot” for terrorists and ISWAP members if local security groups were empowered.

Adams highlighted that over 10 private security groups under the Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG) are prepared to combat insecurity. He emphasized, “We are ready to do the job and will not relent until there is peace in our region.”

OPC Seeks Governors’ Backing

The OPC has called for official approval to participate in security efforts. According to Alao Olusola, Deputy Coordinator of OPC in Ogun State, letters have been sent to governors and traditional rulers across the region, but no responses have been received.

“We are ready to flush out all criminal elements in the region, but we need the governments’ approval to do so,” Olusola stated.

Hunters and Forest Security Groups Urge Collaboration

The Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) and hunters’ associations also lamented the lack of recognition. NFSS Media Officer Bayo Adediran commended some governors, like Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Ademola Adeleke of Osun, for providing operational vehicles and motorcycles, but stressed that broader collaboration is needed.

“We are closer to the grassroots and can help flush out criminals from our forests,” Adediran said.

Amotekun Corps Steps Up Efforts

The South-West Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, has vowed to intensify its operations to drive out criminals from the region. Adetunji Adeleye, Chairman of South-West Amotekun Commanders, reported recent successes, including the arrest of 21 suspected criminals in Ondo State and the prevention of 15 kidnapping attempts in one month.

“The South-West is not a haven for criminals,” Adeleye stated. “We have implemented new strategies to ensure the safety of our people.”

OPC in Osun Awaits Engagement

In Osun State, OPC Coordinator Adeyemi Aboderin said the group is on standby, awaiting the state government’s call for collaboration. “We have 36,000 members across the state ready to contribute to its security,” he said.

A Call for Unity in Securing the Region

The security groups collectively urged South-West governors to join hands with them, emphasizing that addressing the insecurity challenges requires a unified effort.