Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has approved the deployment of 200 operatives of the Oyo State Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed Amotekun to kidnapping/ banditry hotspots in the state especially Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun zones.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Makinde said the deployment of Amotekun Corps followed a meeting with security agencies and stakeholders in the crisis-torn area.
There has been crisis between Ibarapa indigenes and Fulani herdsmen accused of perpetrating crimes ranging from kidnappings, killings, rape to invasion of farmlands with their cattle in the area.
The statement read, ” Following the meeting held with representatives of Igangan, Ibarapaland which was attended by security stakeholders including the recently appointed Commissioner of Police, Oyo State, Mrs. Ngozi Onadeko, our administration has come up with a security strategy for that zone.
” We have resolved to redeploy 200 members of the Oyo State Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed Amotekun to kidnapping/banditry hotspots in the state, especially in the Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun zones.
” These operatives will launch missions to rid the forests of criminals. They will be presenting daily reports of the activities to me in the short run and periodic reports in the long run.
He States further that, ” In the next few weeks, we will 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.
Documentation of Foreigners
The Governor however noted that the state government will proceed with the documentation of foreigners, especially those who are working in mines,to ensure that only foreigners who have legitimate interests in Oyo State will remain.
Enforcement of Existing Laws
Governor Makinde stated further that the state will continue to enforce the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019 which regulates the activities of herdsmen in Oyo State.
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He noted that the Amotekun Corps have been directed 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,”he said.
While reiterating his administration continued support with the police and other federal security agencies posted to the state,Makinde said 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 will be duly prosecuted.
” 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 Executive Council is considering the possibility of compensation payments to families of victims or victims of this criminality who can prove their claims.”
The Governor who thanked residents of the state for remaining peaceful also implored them to remain vigilant and always contact appropriate security agencies on security issues.
” 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.”the statement concludes.
