By Paul Joseph
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared his support for the nationwide #UniteAgainstTerror campaign, urging Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and political differences in a united effort to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats confronting the country.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s position was conveyed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, who stressed that defeating terrorism requires the active participation of citizens alongside the efforts of security agencies.
According to the statement, the campaign gained renewed momentum following the recent conviction and sentencing of individuals linked to the June 2022 attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, one of the deadliest terrorist incidents in the state’s history.
The Owo church massacre shocked the nation after gunmen attacked worshippers during a Sunday service, leaving dozens dead and many others injured. The incident triggered nationwide outrage and intensified calls for stronger measures against terrorism and violent extremism.
While welcoming the court’s judgment against those connected to the attack, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that justice for victims must be accompanied by sustained efforts to prevent future acts of terrorism.
Speaking on a national television programme, the governor emphasized that security should not be viewed through political lenses, describing national safety as a shared responsibility.
According to him, citizens must become more proactive by reporting suspicious movements, unusual activities and security concerns to relevant authorities.
“Security is everybody’s business. When we see something, we must say something. Timely information from citizens can help security agencies prevent attacks and save lives,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended the efforts of security agencies operating across the country, including the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, and other law enforcement bodies.
He noted that the sacrifices made by security personnel in protecting lives and property deserved public support and cooperation.
The governor further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community associations, youth organisations, civil society groups and media practitioners to support the anti-terror campaign by promoting vigilance and strengthening community-based intelligence gathering.
Security analysts have consistently identified community intelligence as a critical tool in the fight against terrorism, noting that many successful security operations often begin with information supplied by local residents.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the campaign seeks to increase public awareness about security threats, discourage the harbouring of criminal elements and encourage citizens to play active roles in safeguarding their communities.
“Ondo State remains committed to supporting all lawful measures aimed at enhancing national security and protecting citizens. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant, responsible and united in the collective task of securing our country,” the statement added.
The governor maintained that national unity, cooperation and sustained public vigilance remain essential in overcoming terrorism and building a safer and more secure Nigeria for future generations.
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