The Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has ordered the immediate intensification of security patrols across all communities and forest areas in the state, in a decisive move to curb criminal activities and restore public confidence in safety.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, comes amid growing concerns over insecurity, including reports of kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal activities within forest corridors that link Ondo to neighbouring states. The governor’s order mandates security agencies to increase surveillance, conduct coordinated patrols, and maintain a stronger presence in identified flashpoints.
According to government sources, the intensified patrols will involve joint operations by the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups. Special attention is to be given to forest reserves and border communities believed to be exploited by criminal elements as hideouts and transit routes.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, while reiterating his administration’s zero tolerance for criminality, emphasized that the safety of lives and property remains a top priority. He warned that the government would not allow criminals to threaten the peace and economic activities of residents.
“We will not fold our arms and allow law-abiding citizens to live in fear. Our forests and communities must be safe, and all security agencies have been directed to act decisively within the bounds of the law,” the governor was quoted as saying.
The governor also directed security commanders in the state to improve intelligence gathering and deepen collaboration with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents. Citizens have been urged to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing operations.
Residents in several parts of the state have welcomed the move, describing it as timely and necessary. Some community leaders, however, called for sustained action rather than short-term patrols, stressing that lasting security would require continuous monitoring and prosecution of offenders.
In recent months, Ondo State, like several parts of the country, has faced security challenges linked to criminal gangs operating in remote and forested areas. The state government has repeatedly pledged to confront these threats through strengthened security architecture and community-based policing.
The intensified patrols are expected to commence immediately, with periodic assessments to ensure effectiveness and accountability. Further updates are anticipated as security operations unfold across the state.
