Oyo Government Declares Zero Tolerance for Banditry at Expanded Security Council Meeting

The Oyo State Government has issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating within its borders, declaring an absolute zero-tolerance policy towards banditry, kidnapping, and illegal mining. This decisive stance was articulated during an Expanded Security Council Meeting held on Wednesday, presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde. The high-level gathering, which included service commanders, traditional rulers, and top government officials, served as a platform to review the state's security architecture and to reassure the public of the administration's unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property.

Briefing the press at the conclusion of the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), conveyed the government’s resolve to "spare no cost" in securing the state. He acknowledged the prevailing security challenges across the nation but emphasized that Oyo State remains proactive rather than reactive. The administration has reportedly activated "swift deployment squads" and intensified "joint visibility patrols" across strategic locations to deter criminal activities and ensure rapid response times to distress calls.

A central pillar of the new security strategy is the adoption of an "integrated security architecture" that formally incorporates non-state actors into the state's defense framework. Owoseni highlighted the "Mogajis Initiative" in Ibadan, chaired by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as a model of this collaboration. Under this system, local heads of families (Mogajis) coordinate vigilance groups within their domains, creating a grassroots intelligence network that feeds directly into the formal security apparatus. This approach aims to close the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The government also addressed the specific threat posed by ungoverned forest spaces, which often serve as sanctuaries for bandits. Owoseni revealed that state security forces, in conjunction with the military, are currently conducting combing operations in the Old Oyo National Park. This vast forest reserve, which stretches into Kwara and Niger states, is being aggressively patrolled to prevent it from being commandeered by terrorists or kidnappers seeking a foothold in the South West.

Border security remains a critical concern, given Oyo’s proximity to states with varying security profiles. The Special Adviser disclosed that the state has operationalized a security pact with Ogun, Lagos, and Osun states to secure shared boundaries. This regional collaboration involves intelligence sharing and coordinated border patrols to intercept criminals moving between jurisdictions. Plans are also underway to bring Kwara State into this fold, ensuring a comprehensive security ring around the state.

In addition to violent crime, the Council read the riot act to stakeholders in the mining sector. Owoseni stated that all miners licensed by the Federal Government must henceforth align their operations with Oyo State's regulations. This includes a mandatory requirement to engage with local communities and traditional rulers before commencing extraction activities. The government warned that any company failing to adhere to environmental safety guidelines or disrespecting community rights would be barred from operating, regardless of their federal license.

The meeting also underscored the vital role of the citizenry in maintaining public order. Residents were urged to utilize the state's dedicated 615 Emergency Number to report suspicious movements or distress situations. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Biodun Aikomo, assured the public that while the government acts decisively against criminals, it remains committed to upholding the fundamental human rights of law-abiding citizens.

The Expanded Security Council Meeting was a show of force and unity, attended by key figures including the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye; and the Chairman of Local Government Chairmen, Hon. Sikiru Sanda. Their collective presence signals a consensus among the political, traditional, and security leadership of the state to insulate Oyo from the wave of insecurity affecting other parts of the country.