Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Tuesday vowed to intensify the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes, warning that sponsors and collaborators behind such acts would be tracked down and punished.
The governor gave the warning during a security meeting with leaders and stakeholders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) at his office in Akure.
Aiyedatiwa expressed concern over the recent spike in abduction cases in some communities, revealing that one area recorded three incidents within two months.
According to him, kidnapping operations often involve networks of collaborators who provide information on potential victims while others transport them to forest hideouts.
He disclosed that security agencies had so far arrested about 90 suspects linked to kidnapping and related crimes in the state, adding that investigations were ongoing.
The governor warned that anyone found to be sponsoring or aiding criminal activities would face the full weight of the law, regardless of status.
He also urged traditional rulers, community leaders and parents to caution youths against engaging in criminal acts.
Aiyedatiwa referred to a recent protest by youths in the Ilu-Abo area over security concerns, noting that representatives of the community’s landlords’ association had earlier met with him to discuss measures to address the situation.
He said he had directed the Commissioner of Police to deploy at least two patrol vehicles to the police post in the area to strengthen security presence.
While acknowledging the frustration of residents, the governor criticised the protest, warning that demonstrations could easily be hijacked by hoodlums and lead to further unrest.
He said the meeting with Fulani leaders formed part of ongoing consultations aimed at preventing security threats before they escalate.
Aiyedatiwa also disclosed that intelligence reports suggested that criminal elements displaced by security operations in neighbouring states such as Kwara and Kogi might be attempting to infiltrate Ondo.
He explained that some suspects reportedly move through cattle routes at night, using herds as cover.
The governor said the state would not interfere with legitimate cattle business but stressed the need for cooperation from herders to identify criminal elements hiding among them.
He urged leaders of the association to provide credible intelligence that could assist security agencies in tracking down criminals.
According to him, the government is also considering requests from the Fulani community to establish vigilante groups among herders, subject to approval and supervision by security agencies.
Earlier, the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Bola Taiwo, said the meeting was convened to allow Fulani leaders brief the governor on steps being taken to address insecurity.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the state chairman of MACBAN, Ali Abubakar Maunde, said the group was committed to working with security agencies to eliminate criminal elements.
He added that the association planned to engage Fulani communities across the state and collaborate with authorities at the local government level to improve security.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa, and other top government officials.
Discover more from Rootedscope Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
