Security agencies across the South-West region of Nigeria have ramped up their efforts to tackle the growing threat of bandits fleeing from the North-West, following an alarming disclosure by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
The governor had raised concerns over the influx of these bandits into Oyo State, prompting authorities to intensify patrols, enhance intelligence gathering, and collaborate closely with local and federal agencies to prevent further escalation.
In response to the governor’s warning, Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone XI, Osogbo, Patrick Edung, assured the public of heightened security measures. Speaking with journalists on Thursday, Edung confirmed that security forces are focusing on vulnerable areas, deploying special squads, and working with local communities to gather intelligence and ensure safety.
“We take the allegations of bandit invasions in Oyo State very seriously,” Edung stated. “We have intensified patrols across all 33 local government areas, with a particular focus on areas identified as flashpoints. Special squads have been deployed to these areas, and our community policing initiatives have been strengthened to ensure cooperation with local leaders, vigilante groups, and citizens.”
Edung emphasized the importance of intelligence sharing, not only within the police force but also with other security agencies, including the military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS). He assured residents that any threats would be met with swift action, and the security agencies are prepared to respond promptly to any crisis.
Similarly, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, expressed the state’s readiness to confront the threat. Ogunlowo confirmed the awareness of the bandits’ movement from the North-West to the South-West and assured the public that police operatives are on high alert. “We are actively monitoring developments and will leave nothing to chance. We are also urging the public to assist us with any information that could aid in combating crime in the state,” he said.
In Oyo State, the Amotekun Corps, led by Commandant Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), has also intensified efforts to track down the bandits. Although Olayanju refrained from disclosing specific operational strategies, he reassured the public that the hunt for the bandits is ongoing.
“The manhunt is in full swing,” Olayanju stated. “While I cannot discuss the details of our operations, I want to assure the people that we are actively pursuing these criminals across the state.”
Meanwhile, Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Igboho, has also expressed his readiness to join the efforts in ridding the South-West of bandits. In an interview with journalists, Igboho declared that he was prepared to work with the government and security agencies to eliminate the bandits, should he receive official authorization.
“I cannot sit idly by while bandits and rogue herders terrorize our people, especially farmers who are simply trying to earn an honest living,” Igboho said. “I am ready to confront these criminals and defend our people, provided the government grants me the go-ahead.”
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has also weighed in, calling on South-West governors to take immediate action to secure the region. Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, urged the governors to convene a meeting to formulate a comprehensive plan to expel bandits from the region and prevent future infiltration.
Afenifere further emphasized the need for close cooperation between security agencies, traditional rulers, and local vigilantes in executing the security plans. The group also called for the deployment of modern technologies and increased incentives for personnel to strengthen security operations in the region.
“Until the governor made his revelation, the public was unaware of the gravity of the situation,” Afenifere stated. “Now that we know there are bandit camps in areas such as Fashola, the need for swift and effective action has never been more urgent.”
As the South-West continues to grapple with the menace of banditry, authorities and communities are being urged to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety and security of the region.
