Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Monday, said his administration remains committed to deepening cooperation and collaborative efforts with federal authorities and security agencies to fight insecurity in the state.
This was as he added that the partnership would ensure a safe and secure environment for residents of the state.
The governor stated this while receiving the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South-West, DIG Adegoke Fayoade, in his office.
Insecurity and federal authorities
He disclosed that his administration has done much in supporting security agencies, adding that it was ready to do more towards combating the insecurity challenges in the state.
He also used the occasion to express gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu, for the support provided since the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
He thanked the IGP for the deployment of a helicopter and personnel for the purpose of finding the abductees
This was as he lauded the recently launched Violent Crimes Unit, an initiative of IGP Disu, noting that it has already proved effective in Oyo State.
He cited how the unit recently rescued the sister and nephews of the immediate past Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.
Governor Makinde, however, urged the DIG to convey the concern of Oyo State to the IGP over the insecurity challenge.
He particularly mentioned banditry, noting that schools have been closed, while residents in communities close to the Old Oyo National Park cannot go to farms freely.
“I would like to use this opportunity to tell you to please convey to the Inspector-General of Police our deep appreciation of his support.
When the kidnapping in Oriire Local Government Area happened, the police deployed a helicopter and other resources here.
“Please, let the IG know we are deeply grateful for the support that we have received so far.
“Well, we are still in the middle of trying to get our children and their teachers back. It is a very traumatic situation for us.
“Today marks exactly one month since the children and their teachers were abducted. We will continue to cooperate with the federal authorities, especially the Nigeria Police, to solve this problem.
“I do know that it is a difficult period also for the police because the resources are limited. We are in government, so we know that resources are limited and the areas that have to be covered are vast.
“Oyo State is bigger than, at least, 10 other African countries. We do understand, but for our people, they just want an end to banditry, insurgency, kidnapping and all of that.
“So please, convey our apprehension also to the IG. Whatever we can do, we are ready to do. I’ll be interested in your feedback, since you’re going to speak to the officers and men of the command of the state Police Command.
“If there are things that you think we need to do more as a state government to better support them, please, we are ready to do more,” he said.
Speaking earlier, DIG Fayoade commended the Oyo State Government for its logistical and financial support to the Nigeria Police and other security agencies.
He expressed regret over the unfortunate kidnap incident in the state, noting that his team has been mandated to ensure the safe return of those affected, and provide round-the-clock security for citizens across the South-West.
Those who received the DIG alongside Governor Makinde included Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Otunba (Dr) Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Adenike Fasina, mni; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal;
Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr Abayomi Fagbenro; Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security, CP Sunday Odukoya (rtd); Executive Adviser to the Governor on Security Coordination, Major-Gen. Lukman Omoniyi (rtd); and Special Adviser, Immigration and Homeland security, ACG Segun Adegoke (rtd), among others.
