Governors of the Southwest have resolved to set up a joint surveillance and monitoring team to strengthen security across the region in response to growing threats from ISWAP and other criminal groups.
The decision was announced in a communiqué issued after the Southwest Governors’ Forum meeting, held at the State House in Lagos and chaired by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday.
Other attendees included Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).
The move follows recent warnings from Governor Makinde that bandits displaced from the North West were infiltrating Oyo State. Calls from regional leaders, including the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, and the Pan-Yoruba group, Afenifere, have also heightened concerns about growing insecurity.
At the meeting, the governors condemned the security threats and called for greater collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and local security outfits.
They also resolved to establish a Joint Surveillance Monitoring Team to oversee security operations and enhance coordination across the region.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to deploying advanced technology, including aerial surveillance, to combat security challenges effectively.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, speaking on behalf of the governors, emphasized their determination to counter these threats and ensure the safety of the Southwest region.
