Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State expressed serious concerns about rising incidents of illegal mining, banditry, and kidnapping, particularly in the Oke-Ogun region. This was conveyed during a meeting with Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Abiodun Alabi, at the State Government’s Conference Hall in Agodi, Ibadan.
Represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Makinde highlighted the increasing threats posed by these criminal activities, noting recent kidnappings on the Igbeti-Igboho road and a fatal attack on a driver. He emphasized that illegal mining activities were depleting the state’s resources, while kidnappers and bandits were rendering parts of the state unsafe.
“The northern forests of the state have become a hideout for these criminals, from where they launch their attacks on residents and travelers,” Makinde stated. “Particularly in the Oke-Ogun area, we have seen numerous reports of kidnappings and abductions. We urge the police to intensify their efforts to tackle these issues and provide the necessary support for the mobile police station at Ago Are.”
During the visit, DIG Alabi reiterated the importance of cooperation between the police and local stakeholders to address the security challenges effectively. He met with key stakeholders at the state police command headquarters in Eleyele, stressing the importance of collaboration and the provision of useful information to achieve a zero-tolerance policy towards crime.
Source: https://punchng.com/makinde-raises-concern-over-banditry-kidnapping-in-oyo/
