INSECURITY: Aborisade urges Gov Makinde to act decisively
By KEMI KASUMU
He noted that residents now live in fear, saying activities such as night vigils have become risky due to rising insecurity. According to him, incidents of kidnappings and attacks have continued to escalate across Oyo State.
A United Kingdom–based human rights lawyer, Chief Niyi Aborisade, has raised concerns over the worsening security situation in Oyo State, urging Governor Seyi Makinde to take urgent and decisive steps to safeguard lives and property.
In a statement issued on Sunday and made available to the media, Aborisade warned that Oyo State, once regarded as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, is increasingly experiencing kidnappings, banditry, and violent attacks.
He noted that residents now live in fear, saying activities such as night vigils have become risky due to rising insecurity. According to him, incidents of kidnappings and attacks have continued to escalate across Oyo State.
Aborisade cited recent attacks in which armed bandits reportedly invaded farms and parks, killing farmers and rangers. He also referenced a recent incident where criminals allegedly stormed a farm, kidnapped an Indian national, and killed a police officer on duty before escaping.
Describing the trend as alarming, Aborisade said the attacks indicate that criminal elements are becoming more emboldened in the state.
The 2027 governorship aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) questioned the effectiveness of security measures put in place by the state government, including the surveillance drones reportedly acquired by the administration. He asked whether the drones are operational and where they have been deployed, noting that residents have yet to experience any significant improvement in security.
Aborisade stressed that Governor Makinde, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, bears the responsibility of ensuring the safety of citizens. He said protecting lives and property remains a core duty of government.
He further warned that persistent insecurity could discourage investors and negatively impact economic growth, noting that no serious investor would commit to a state perceived as unsafe.
While acknowledging the broader challenges facing Nigerians, including economic hardship and poor electricity supply, Aborisade maintained that security must remain a top priority. He warned against allowing Oyo State to become a safe haven for criminals.
He called on the state government to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance collaboration with security agencies, and ensure accountability in the deployment of security resources, urging the governor to act swiftly to restore peace and public confidence in the state.
