… Thanks President 1 for State Police Creation
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has directed the establishment of additional military formations in Eda Oniyo axis, in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of the state as part of measures to strengthen security, safeguard lives and properties as well as prevent future security breaches in the border community.
The Governor also ordered the speedy completion of the Divisional police Station currently under construction in Eda Oniyo, stressing that the facility is critical to further strengthen the security architecture of the community.
Governor Oyebanji gave these directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo community led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, HRM Oba Julius Awolola, on a thank you visit to his office.
He said his administration remains committed to protecting every part of the state and that no community would be abandoned to criminal elements.
While acknowledging that Eda Oniyo had experienced slow development over the years as a result of prolonged legal dispute over the headquarters of the local government, the Governor assured them that the state government would focus on transforming Eda Oniyo into a community befitting its status as a local government headquarters.
The Governor also expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for the creation of state police, describing it as a bold and timely initiative capable of addressing the country’s security challenges.
Governor Oyebanji also disclosed that a combine team of soldiers and police and other security outfits regularly patrol the border town to ward off criminals crossing from neighbouring states to Ekiti.
The Governor said “This government is here to protect and serve you and the only way we can serve you better is by your cooperation. I have listened to your request, the construction of the police station is ongoing and I will ensure the speedy completion, then Gen. Ogunana this is important, I want a military base at Eda Oniyo, it is extremely important, whatever is going to cost us, bring it to me I will approve it.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the traditional ruler, Oba Julius Awolola, the President of the Eda Oniyo progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ojo, said the purpose of their visit was to express the community’s profound appreciation to the Governor for his interventions throughout the recent security ordeal.
While commending the Governor for his wisdom in handling the security challenges and providing adequate medical care for the rescued victims, the IPU President appealed to the state government to utilise the vast expanse of land in the area for agricultural projects, stressing that such initiative would improve security as well as enhance the social and economic wellbeing of residents.
Also at the meeting were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secreatry to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd ), Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, members of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union and relatives of the kidnapped victims who recently regained freedom.
