Gbenro Adesina
Oyo State Government has concluded arrangements to deploy 200 members of the Oyo State Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed, Amotekun, to kidnapping/banditry hotspots in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun zones, without neglecting other parts of the state.
Governor Seyi Makinde revealed this after holding a meeting with the representatives of Igangan, Ibarapaland, which was attended by the security stakeholders including the recently appointed Commissioner of Police, Oyo State, Mrs. Ngozi Onadeko.
The Governor said that these operatives would launch missions to rid the forests of criminals, adding that they would be presenting daily reports of their activities to him in the short run and periodic reports in the long run.
He said, “In the next few weeks, we’ll hold town hall meetings and community outreaches, bringing together residents and security agencies to talk about any issues of immediate concern and how they can be resolved through dialogue and more effective community policing.
“We will continue to enforce the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019. This law also regulates the activities of herdsmen in Oyo State.
“We have directed the Amotekun Corps to continue collaborating with ‘Operation Burst’ and local vigilante groups in enforcing this law.
“You will recall that in the security meeting of south west governors and other stakeholders two days ago, it was agreed that open grazing be banned in the entire south west zone.
“Our administration will continue to support the police and other federal security agencies posted to the state in the discharge of their duties.
“We are aware that some farmers have been killed and/or lost their livelihoods to criminal trespass and damage by pastoralists. And so, the State EXCO is considering the possibility of compensation payments to families of victims or victims who can prove their claims.
“We have started the process of prosecuting all suspects arrested for criminal activities in Ibarapa and the Oke-Ogun zones of the state in connection with the ongoing tensions in the area.
“Let me thank residents of Oyo State who complied with the directive to remain peaceful, and call on all residents to stay vigilant and always contact the security agencies empowered by law to deal with security issues.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to protect the lives and properties of residents of our dear state”.
