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From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
As part of efforts to strengthen security across border communities and ensure the safety of lives and property in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has ordered the establishment of new military formations in the Eda Oniyo axis of Ilejemeje Local Government Area of the state.
The step, according to the governor, will also help to forestall future security violations in the border community.
Governor Oyebanji also ordered the speedy completion of the Divisional Police Station currently under construction in Eda Oniyo, stressing that the facility is critical to further strengthening the security architecture of the community.
The governor gave the directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the Eda Oniyo community led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, HRM Oba Julius Awolola, on a thank-you visit to his office. He said his administration remains committed to protecting every part of the state and that no community would be abandoned to criminal elements.
While acknowledging that Eda Oniyo had experienced slow development over the years as a result of a prolonged legal dispute over the headquarters of the local government, the governor assured residents that the state government would focus on transforming Eda Oniyo into a community befitting its status as a local government headquarters.
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The governor also expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for the creation of state police, describing it as a bold and timely initiative capable of addressing the country’s security challenges.
Governor Oyebanji also disclosed that a combined team of soldiers, police personnel, and other security operatives regularly patrol the border town to ward off criminals crossing into Ekiti from neighbouring states.
The governor said: “This government is here to protect and serve you and the only way we can serve you better is by your cooperation. I have listened to your request, the construction of the police station is ongoing and I will ensure the speedy completion, then Gen. Ogunana this is important, I want a military base at Eda Oniyo, it is extremely important, whatever is going to cost us, bring it to me I will approve it.”
Speaking earlier on behalf of the traditional ruler, Oba Julius Awolola, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ojo, said the purpose of their visit was to express the community’s profound appreciation to the governor for his interventions throughout the recent security ordeal.
While commending the governor for his wisdom in handling the security challenges and providing adequate medical care for the rescued victims, the union president appealed to the state government to utilise the vast expanse of land in the area for agricultural projects, stressing that such an initiative would improve security as well as enhance the social and economic wellbeing of residents.
Also at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd); Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; members of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union; and relatives of the kidnapped victims who recently regained their freedom.
