Ogun State Government has announced comprehensive security measures to address growing concerns about banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities affecting parts of Nigeria.
Enhanced Security Measures Announced
Governor Dapo Abiodun revealed on Monday that the state will implement a robust security arrangement following an emergency security meeting held in Iperu. The governor emphasized that all undocumented foreign nationals working with multinational companies operating in Ogun State will now be properly documented by the state government.
Additionally, Governor Abiodun stated that new non-indigenes entering the state for the first time must undergo proper screening by their community leaders. This measure aims to ensure they are not being used to orchestrate violence, with the government needing to verify their purpose and means of livelihood in the state.
Recent Arrests and Security Threats
The security crackdown comes as law enforcement agencies have already arrested approximately 70 foreigners in recent days, predominantly from Niger Republic, Sudan, and Chad. According to the governor, these individuals could not provide clear explanations for their presence in Ogun State and were unable to speak English.
"We are going to process these individuals with the Nigerian Immigration Service," Governor Abiodun told journalists. "We will also be calling on our non-indigene communities to be more vigilant so that we know who is here and why they are here."
Scavengers and Criminal Networks
Governor Abiodun expressed particular concern about scavengers' activities, noting they now pose a greater security threat than before. He announced that law enforcement agencies will pay special attention to scavengers and engage them to ensure they are not being used to perpetrate crimes in the state.
The meeting also extensively discussed the activities of scrap dealers and scavengers who may be aiding criminal networks. The governor directed police to immediately clear out areas such as "Zanga" in Ijebu-Ode and similar enclaves across the state, warning that properties used by criminals would be seized by the government.
Additional Security Initiatives
Other security measures announced include:
- Thorough securing of the state's forest reserves to prevent criminal hideouts
- Collaboration with security agencies to flush out criminals from mining sites
- Enhanced community policing efforts with resident participation
- Strict warnings to traditional rulers against allocating government land to strangers
Governor Abiodun highlighted Ogun State's unique security challenges as Nigeria's industrial capital, receiving more than five million daily commuters, making heightened vigilance crucial for public safety.
The governor appealed to residents to actively support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that "security is not the responsibility of security agents alone." He assured that his administration would continue providing necessary logistics to security agencies while commending their existing cooperation and synergy.
