Increased Banditry In The South West: Gani Adams Calls Out Governors For Lack Of Collaboration On Security Measures

Discover how the influx of bandits into the South West has heightened insecurity concerns, as Gani Adams and security groups call on governors for collaboration.

The alarming influx of bandits and terrorists from Northern Nigeria into the South West has raised serious security concerns. Despite warnings and offers of collaboration from key regional security leaders, such as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, South West governors have yet to actively engage with local security groups to combat this growing threat.

Gani Adams: South West Governors Are Unresponsive

Gani Adams, through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Aderemi, expressed disappointment that governors in the South West have not responded to requests for collaboration to enhance security in the region. Adams stated, “Yorubaland will become too hot for terrorists and ISWAP members if the governors partner with us.”

The Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) and other groups under the Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG) are ready to secure the region but need governmental approval to act effectively.

OPC and Hunters’ Groups Call for Support

OPC’s Efforts to Collaborate

The OPC leadership disclosed that they have written to governors and traditional rulers across the South West seeking collaboration but have received no response. Deputy Coordinator of OPC in Ogun State, Alao Olusola, noted, “We are ready to flush out all criminal elements if given the go-ahead.”

Nigeria Forest Security Service’s Contributions

Bayo Adediran, South West Media Officer for the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), acknowledged that some governors, including Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), have supported them with operational vehicles and resources. Adediran emphasized the need for further collaboration to eliminate criminal activities, particularly in the forests.

State-Specific Security Challenges

Osun State

In Osun State, the Coordinator of OPC, Adeyemi Aboderin, revealed that the group is on standby under Gani Adams’ directives. However, they are still waiting for the state government’s invitation for joint efforts. With 36,000 members across 30 local governments, the OPC is prepared to contribute to securing lives and property.

Ondo State

The South-West Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, has taken a more active approach, arresting 21 suspected criminals in Ondo State. Commander Adetunji Adeleye assured that strategies are in place to deter criminals and ensure safety in the region.

Adeleye highlighted their achievements, including the prevention of 15 kidnapping incidents within a month. He emphasized, “The South West is not a haven for criminals. We will smoke them out and secure our region.”

Conclusion

The influx of bandits and terrorists into the South West requires immediate action and collaboration among all stakeholders. While groups like OPC, NFSS, and Amotekun Corps have demonstrated readiness, the lack of governmental engagement limits their effectiveness. To secure Yorubaland and protect its residents, South West governors must prioritize collaboration with local security groups.