By John Dike, Osogbo
The Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, has called for increased logistical support for security agencies to enhance their operational who capacity in tackling crime and criminality across the state.
He made the call while commending the donation of 300 motorcycles to security agencies by local government chairmen, describing the intervention as timely and impactful in strengthening grassroots security.
He emphasised that the provision of operational vehicles and other essential logistics remains critical to effective policing, particularly in ensuring rapid response to incidents and improving patrol coverage in both urban and rural communities.
“Provision of vehicular and other necessary logistics is key to helping the police and other relevant security agencies tackle crime effectively. Preventing and detecting crime require adequate mobility, intelligence support, and operational efficiency,” he said.
The police commissioner noted that mobility remains one of the biggest challenges facing law enforcement agencies, especially in hard-to-reach areas where criminal activities often thrive due to limited access.
Gotan urged corporate organisations, community leaders, and well-meaning individuals to complement government efforts by supporting security agencies with necessary tools and resources.
He assured that any support received would be judiciously utilised, stressing that accountability and professionalism would guide the use of all donated logistics.
“Security is critical to development, and it is a responsibility that must be taken seriously by all stakeholders. With improved logistics, we can respond faster and more effectively to security challenges,”
“Effective security should be everybody’s business not fir security agencies alone. All hands must be on deck to support the police in their quest to rid off the state of the society with all manners of crime.
The police boss further reassured residents that the command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, while also seeking stronger collaboration with members of the public in tackling crime.
He emphasised the importance of community policing, intelligence sharing, and timely reporting of suspicious activities as key components of effective security management.
Gotan who said Osun State have been relatively peaceful assured the residents that the peaceful atmosphere being enjoyed the moment would be sustained
The donation of motorcycles is expected to significantly improve mobility for security personnel, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access roads may be difficult for conventional patrol vehicles.
Security experts note that motorcycles are often more effective in navigating narrow routes, enabling faster response times and improving visibility of security presence at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended the initiative, describing it as a major contribution to strengthening grassroots security architecture.
In a statement issued by its Director of Media and Information, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, the party said the intervention was coordinated through the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) under the leadership of Hon. Samuel Idowu Abiodun.
According to the party, the motorcycles will be distributed among key security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as local vigilante groups, hunters, and community-based security outfits.
It explained that each local government council procured 10 motorcycles, with allocations structured to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response at the community level.
Complementing Existing Security Efforts
The APC noted that the intervention would complement ongoing efforts by federal and state authorities in addressing insecurity, particularly at the grassroots where mobility constraints often limit the effectiveness of security operations.
The party argued that the initiative highlights the capacity of local government leadership to contribute meaningfully to public safety, even within existing administrative constraints.
Criticism of State Government
However, the APC used the opportunity to criticise the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, questioning the impact of government spending on security in recent years.
It maintained that more strategic investments and targeted interventions are required to effectively tackle emerging security challenges in the state.
Political Dimension Ahead of Election
The development comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.
The APC reiterated its confidence in its governorship candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, expressing optimism that his administration would prioritise security, infrastructure, and balanced development if elected.
Experts Emphasise Need for Sustained Collaboration
Security analysts have stressed that while logistical support is essential, sustained collaboration between government agencies, local authorities, private organisations, and communities is key to long-term security.
They noted that investments in communication systems, intelligence gathering, personnel training, and community engagement must complement physical logistics such as vehicles and motorcycles.
According to them, strengthening trust between security agencies and citizens will also play a critical role in improving intelligence flow and preventing crime.
Towards a Safer Osun
Residents have expressed optimism that the additional logistics will enhance the effectiveness of security agencies and improve response time to emergencies.
Many also called for sustained support, proper maintenance of equipment, and continuous monitoring to ensure that the resources are used effectively.
Observers agree that while the donation marks a positive step, long-term success will depend on consistent investment, transparency, and coordinated efforts among all stakeholders.
