- lists emerging security challenges in Osun
- raises concerns about sponsored political violence
By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their immense contributions to national defence, commending the Nigerian Army for its successes in the ongoing fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
He spoke while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Osogbo, and during the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruits of the Nigerian Army.
Represented at the parade by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, Adeleke said Nigeria’s unity and stability have been sustained through the sacrifices and patriotism of members of the Armed Forces.
“We appreciate your patriotism and commitment to the security and safety of our dear nation,” the governor said.
He noted that the Nigerian Army had continued to distinguish itself in defending the country against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges, while acknowledging the complementary roles of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies.
Although he described Osun as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, Adeleke expressed concern over recent security developments, particularly what he described as politically motivated violence.
According to him, the state has witnessed targeted attacks and killings involving members of the Accord Party, allegedly carried out by armed political thugs linked to the opposition APC.
The governor recalled that he recently received a delegation from the Inspector-General of Police, led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West, conveying the IGP’s directive for strict enforcement of law and order to curb political violence in the state.
Adeleke also highlighted three major emerging security challenges confronting Osun State.
He identified the increasing influx of illegal arms and ammunition into the state as a serious threat capable of escalating criminal activities if left unchecked.
The governor further disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the presence of suspected bandits in parts of Osun East Senatorial District, allegedly operating under the guise of mining activities.
He also expressed concern over the growing threat of kidnapping along Osun’s borders with Oyo and Kwara states, warning that criminal activities from neighbouring states were beginning to spill into border communities within Osun.
To strengthen security, Adeleke urged the Nigerian Army to establish military checkpoints along strategic entry and exit routes into the state, including Ila–Ikirun Road, Ikirun–Kwara Border Road, Gbongan–Osogbo Road, Iwo–Osogbo Road, Ijebu-Jesa–Ekiti Road, Ife–Sekona Road, Ogbomoso–Ejigbo Road and Ilesa–Osogbo Road.
In his response, the Chief of Army Staff commended the cordial relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Osun State Government, assuring the governor of the Army’s continued support in ensuring peace and security across the state.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining operations against bandits and insurgents nationwide, adding that the Army’s training institutions remained focused on producing well-trained and combat-ready personnel.
