By Kehinde Aderemi
Agbekoya Peace Movement of Nigeria (APM) yesterday said it would complement efforts of the Lagos State Government to strengthen the security architecture of the state. The APM’s assurances came in the wake of the recent statement made by the Commander of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Kumar Sanda, that his group had arrested thousands of Boko Haram suspects in Lagos.
Speaking on the security situation in the state, spokesperson of the organisation, Adewole Ayomide, said Lagos is presently safe for residents. He added that the efforts of APM, and other security outfits at securing the state from both internal and external aggressors have been top-notch and yielding positive results.
Ayomide said: “Insecurity has been a major issue in Nigeria. The recent killings in Plateau and Benue States were sad reminders of the security deficits across the country. It must be stated also that our efforts at securing the South West region have never been in vain.
“The APM is all over the South West region. Even, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, lives in Lagos. The Yoruba generalissimo is always at the top of the security situation, both in Lagos and other parts of the South West region.
“However, we are not disputing the fact that there are bad elements around perpetrating criminal acts like kidnapping and killings in the state, it is also very important to note that there are issues that need to be addressed. But I think there is no need to heighten the tension or stoke the fire of uncertainty and fear in the state.
“Our organisation is always working tirelessly to ensure that all the states in the South West are safe and secured. And we are also doing all these in collaboration with other security outfits across the country.
“So, as far as the APM is concerned, Lagos State is safe. We are still urging the governors in the South West to partner with us in addressing the security challenges in the region.”