Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed deep concern over rising insecurity, pledging to intensify efforts to ensure the safety of the state.
Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service held in Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde shared alarming intelligence about bandit activities near a location where he celebrated his birthday last year.
During the event, the governor revealed, “During my birthday retreat, bandits had camped less than two kilometers from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”
Makinde attributed the influx of criminal elements to the intensified military operations in the North West, which have pushed these groups to seek refuge in other areas, including Oyo.
Reflecting on the past year, Makinde acknowledged that 2024 posed significant challenges in terms of security, including incidents of armed robbery, fire outbreaks, and kidnappings. However, he vowed to “redouble efforts” in 2025 to tackle these threats head-on.
The governor called on traditional rulers and residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities immediately.
He said: “The year 2024 was challenging, particularly in terms of safety and security. We had incidents of fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. However, in 2025, we will redouble our efforts to address these issues.”
“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them. During my birthday retreat, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”
The governor urged residents and traditional rulers to report any suspicious movements.
“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately.”
“For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe,” Makinde noted.
