Adeleke moves to fortify Osun schools, deploys hunters, vigilantes

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has intensified security measures across the state, mobilising local security groups, hunters and traditional rulers as part of efforts to safeguard schools and communities amid growing security concerns in parts of the South-West.

The governor disclosed this on Tuesday, saying his administration had activated all layers of the state’s security architecture to strengthen surveillance and prevent criminal activities.

According to Adeleke, consultations have been held with various stakeholders, including conventional security agencies and grassroots security outfits, to enhance preparedness against emerging threats.

He said the state had engaged local hunters, the Oodua Peoples Congress, Agbekoya, Amotekun Corps and other community-based security groups as part of a coordinated strategy to bolster security across Osun.

The governor also revealed that an expanded meeting of the State Security Council involving service commanders had been convened to harmonise efforts and ensure effective coordination among security agencies.

Adeleke stressed that the protection of schools, communities and residents remained a top priority, adding that intelligence gathering, collaboration and proactive security operations would be intensified across the state.

He further disclosed that he had reached out to the Osun State Traditional Council through the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, with plans underway for a meeting with traditional rulers across the state.

According to him, traditional rulers play a vital role in community security due to their grassroots presence and knowledge of developments within their domains.

The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious activities.

He assured citizens that the government would continue to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the state.

The renewed security push comes amid heightened concerns over banditry and attacks on schools in parts of the South-West, particularly the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.