The Ondo State House of Assembly has summoned the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Olugbenga Atiba, and the State Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, to appear before lawmakers on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, to provide a briefing on the worsening security situation in the state.
During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Olamide Oladiji, legislators engaged in an extensive debate on the surge in kidnapping incidents across the state.
Following deliberations, the House passed a series of resolutions aimed at addressing the crisis.
The Assembly urged security agencies to adopt more aggressive measures in tackling the rising threat of abductions.
It also called for public sensitisation on security matters, stressing the role of local government chairmen in ensuring the safety of their communities.
Lawmakers advised them to bolster security by engaging local vigilante groups to complement existing law enforcement structures.
As part of its recommendations, the Assembly urged the state government to involve traditional rulers and community leaders as key stakeholders in the fight against kidnapping. It also called for the swift adjudication of kidnapping cases in the courts to serve as a deterrent to potential criminals.
Additionally, the House stressed the need for security agencies to be equipped with advanced technology and resources to enhance their operational effectiveness.
The lawmakers appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider the establishment of state police and ensure such forces are adequately funded and equipped.
They also advocated for the recruitment of additional personnel into the Amotekun Corps, the revival of the Anti-Kidnapping Law, and improved welfare for Amotekun officers to enhance their effectiveness.
Expressing grave concern over the deteriorating security situation, the House cited recent cases, including the abduction of nine surveyors in Ilu-Abo, Akure North Local Government Area, and the deadly attack on Alajido and Sunday Camp farm settlement, where nine people were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen.
Describing these incidents as direct threats to the safety and livelihoods of residents, lawmakers vowed to prevent Ondo State from becoming a refuge for criminals.
They emphasised that while law-abiding Nigerians remained welcome, those exploiting farmlands as cover for criminal activities would face decisive action.
The Assembly urged security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Amotekun Corps, to increase patrols, strengthen surveillance, and collaborate more effectively with local vigilantes.
It declared that criminals must realise that Ondo State would no longer be a safe haven for them.
Furthermore, traditional rulers, community leaders, and village heads were encouraged to maintain vigilance and actively cooperate with security agencies.
The state government was also advised to allocate adequate financial and material resources to fortify security operations.
The lawmakers called on the people of Ondo State to remain watchful and promptly report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
“Ondo State belongs to us all, and we must not allow kidnappers to take it from us,” the House stated.
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