Akure, Ondo State
Governors in Nigeria’s South-West region have stepped up efforts to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other security threats, with Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, saying the states are working closely together to keep residents safe.
The governor spoke at a time when many people across the region are worried about rising cases of kidnapping and attacks in some communities.
Recent incidents include the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State and the kidnapping of residents in parts of Ekiti State, raising fresh concerns about security in the South-West.
Speaking on a television programme on Tuesday, Aiyedatiwa said South-West governors have continued to hold meetings and work behind the scenes to improve intelligence sharing, coordinate security operations and strengthen regional security outfits such as Amotekun.
According to him, security work is often not visible to the public because many operations take place quietly before criminals can strike.
“We are talking to ourselves and we are working together,” the governor said.
He disclosed that governors in the region recently met in Ibadan, Oyo State, to discuss new ways of improving security across the South-West.
Growing Security Worries in the South-West
For many years, the South-West was seen as one of the safer parts of Nigeria. However, in recent years, states such as Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, Ogun and Osun have recorded increasing cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and attacks linked to criminal groups.
Security experts have warned that some criminals move across state boundaries and use forests and remote communities as hideouts, making it harder for security agencies to track them.
The recent incidents in Oyo and Ekiti have again reminded residents that insecurity remains a serious challenge that requires states to work together rather than operate separately.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said South-West governors understand the concerns of residents and are taking steps to address them.
Why Ondo State Is Important in Security Operations
The governor explained that Ondo State occupies a strategic position because it serves as a link between the South-West and some neighbouring regions.
Because of this location, the state government pays special attention to monitoring forests, border communities and major routes that could be used by criminals.
According to him, many security operations take place in forest reserves and other locations without attracting public attention.
“A lot of engagements are going on in our forest reserves that do not come to the public in the news,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa added that security efforts are usually noticed only when an attack occurs, even though security agencies and government officials work daily to prevent crimes.
Amotekun Remains Key to Regional Security
One of the major tools being used by South-West states is the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun.
The outfit was created in 2020 by South-West governors to support conventional security agencies such as the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Since then, Amotekun officers have been involved in patrols, intelligence gathering and community-based security operations across the region.
The governor said Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti and Ogun states currently operate Amotekun structures, while Lagos has its own security arrangements designed for its unique environment.
Many supporters believe local security outfits are better placed to understand the challenges facing communities and respond quickly to threats.
Owo Church Attack Convictions Bring Renewed Focus on Security
The governor’s comments came shortly after a major court judgment linked to one of Nigeria’s deadliest attacks on a place of worship.
On June 5, 2022, gunmen attacked the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, during Sunday service.
The attackers opened fire and reportedly used explosives, killing more than 40 worshippers, including women and children, while many others were injured.
The attack shocked Nigeria and drew condemnation from around the world.
Years after the tragedy, a Federal High Court in Abuja delivered judgment in the case.
Justice Emeka Nwite sentenced four defendants to death by hanging after finding them guilty of terrorism-related offences connected to the attack.
The convicted men were among five suspects facing terrorism charges filed by the DSS.
Many residents of Owo and families of the victims have welcomed the judgment, seeing it as an important step towards justice.
‘Justice Has Been Served’
Reacting to the court’s decision, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the judgment as a victory for justice and the rule of law.
He said the people of Owo had waited several years for those responsible for the attack to be held accountable.
“For us in Ondo State, we are happy that this judgment is a victory for the rule of law and for all the victims attacked, not just in Owo but across the country by terrorists,” he said.
While the ruling cannot erase the pain suffered by victims and their families, many believe it sends a strong message that those involved in terrorism can be arrested, prosecuted and punished under Nigerian law.
South-West States Promise Stronger Security Cooperation
As kidnapping, violent crime and other security threats continue to affect different parts of Nigeria, South-West governors say they will continue to strengthen cooperation and intelligence sharing to protect lives and property.
Residents across the region are hoping that these efforts will lead to safer roads, more secure communities and the prevention of future tragedies.
For now, governors insist that security agencies and regional partners are working actively behind the scenes to ensure the South-West remains safe for businesses, investors and ordinary citizens.