State Police, Panacea To Insecurity –  Ekiti Gov Oyebanji

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has asked for the establishment of an additional Military formation in the Eda Oniyo axis of Ilejemeje Local Government Area of the state as part of measures to strengthen security, safeguard lives and property, and prevent future security breaches in the border community.

The Governor also ordered the speedy completion of the Divisional Police Station currently under construction in Eda Oniyo, stressing that the facility is critical to further strengthening the security architecture of the community.

Governor Oyebanji gave the directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo community, led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, HRM Oba Julius Awolola, on a thank-you visit to his office.

The community had come to appreciate the state government for taking care of medical needs of worshippers abducted at a CAC church and later released after over 60 days in captivity.

The 14 victims were admitted at the state government owned medical facility with Governor Biodun Oyebanji monitoring them.

The governor stated that his administration remained committed to protecting every part of the state, assuring that no community would be abandoned to criminal elements.

While acknowledging that Eda Oniyo had experienced slow development over the years as a result of the prolonged legal dispute over the headquarters of the local government, the Governor assured the delegation that the state government would focus on transforming Eda Oniyo into a community befitting its status as a local government headquarters.

The Governor also expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for the creation of state police, describing it as a bold and timely initiative capable of addressing the country’s security challenges.

Governor Oyebanji further disclosed that a combined team of soldiers, police and other security personnel regularly patrols the border town to prevent criminals from crossing into Ekiti from neighbouring states.

The Governor added: “This government is here to protect and serve you and the only way we can serve you better is by your cooperation.

“I have listened to your request, the construction of the police station is ongoing and I will ensure the speedy completion, then Gen. Ogunana this is important, I want a military base at Eda Oniyo, it is extremely important, whatever is going to cost us, bring it to me I will approve it.”

Speaking earlier on behalf of the traditional ruler, Oba Julius Awolola, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ojo Ajayi, said the purpose of their visit was to express the community’s profound appreciation to the Governor for his interventions throughout the recent security ordeal.

While commending the Governor for his wisdom in handling the security challenges and providing adequate medical care for the rescued victims, the EPU President appealed to the state government to utilise the vast expanse of land in the area for agricultural projects.

He stressed that such an initiative would not only improve security but also enhance the social and economic wellbeing of residents.

Also at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd.); Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; members of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union; and relatives of the kidnapped victims who recently regained their freedom.