FIC Report (Ondo State) – Determined to restore peace and security across Ondo State, the state government has launched “Operation Daada”, a joint security patrol initiative aimed at combating the rising wave of kidnappings, killings, and other criminal activities.
The operation brings together all security agencies and paramilitary forces to conduct coordinated patrols across identified flashpoints.
The Commander of the State Security Network (Amotekun Corps), Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, who dropped the hint, explained that the joint team comprises the Police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Army, and the Amotekun Corps.
According to him, “Operation Daada” is designed to ensure a swift and proactive response to security threats, especially in rural areas where farmers and travellers have been frequent targets of kidnappers and armed gangs.
Speaking in Akure while parading suspected criminals arrested within one week, Adeleye emphasised that the operation was already yielding positive results.
He noted that security operatives had successfully dismantled several criminal hideouts and apprehended notorious individuals involved in violent crimes.
He added that Akure North, previously a hotspot for kidnappings and killings in Ondo state, had seen a significant reduction in criminal activities since the operation commenced.
He further assured residents that the security forces would sustain the momentum and extend their patrols to other vulnerable communities across the state.
While urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Ondo State a safe place for all.
The Amotekun Commander noted that part of the success stories was the parade of 58 suspects arrested for various offences across the state last Friday.
He disclosed that among those paraded were 32 kidnapping suspects arrested and are currently undergoing various stages of interrogations.
He confirmed that some of the 32 kidnapping suspects were arrested in Akure North, Akure South, Ose, and Akoko local government areas over the past week.
“They were apprehended in forest reserves and other locations known for criminal activities,” he disclosed.
According to him, “Officers and men of the Ondo State Security Network mobilised additional support from neighbouring local governments and launched operations into forest reserves and other areas known for these nefarious activities.
“We want to reassure residents that, with the government’s concerted efforts and the support of all security agencies, we are committed to flushing out criminals from both the forests and urban areas to ensure a safe community.”
Akogun Adeleye also disclosed, that following the recent killings in the Akoko North axis, officers and personnel from all security agencies, including Amotekun, have intensified patrols in the area.
He assured that normalcy has been restored in communities such as Ago Dada, Ago Igbo, Ago Ademetu, and their environs.
“We assure residents that they can safely continue their farming activities, as the government has established a joint task force to stabilise remote areas of Akoko North, where these criminal activities have been prevalent.
“Additionally, efforts are underway to improve road access in these areas to ensure a swift response in case of emergencies.”
According to him, “To reinforce this commitment, the leadership of Miyetti Allah was invited, and they have pledged to support security agencies in identifying and removing criminal elements.
Governing council chair Adeleye urged residents of Ondo State to collaborate with the government and security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence on any suspicious movements.
Furthermore, he highlighted an emerging trend where trucks transporting foodstuffs from northern parts of the country arrive with hundreds of unidentified individuals who have no known destination or contacts.
“These individuals often become a public nuisance upon arrival.
“To address this, truck owners have been informed that the state will not tolerate more than five passengers per truckload.
“Security agencies at the borders have also been directed to turn back any vehicles carrying excessive numbers of undocumented individuals.
“This measure is part of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state.”
Adeleye called for public cooperation, emphasising that with the government taking decisive actions to ensure security, residents must also play their part.
He also noted the criminal activities that have occurred in the deep forests of Akure North Local Government area, saying government has responded by deploying a joint patrol team comprising the Army, Police, Civil Defence, and Amotekun personnel.
“This deployment has successfully restored peace in areas such as Ago Ibo, Ago Dada, Ago Ademeku, and Ago Sonde.
“The government has further directed that Amotekun establish permanent control posts in these remote areas to prevent the resurgence of criminal activities.
He added that the measures underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability, not only in Akure North but across the entire state.
Recalling a past operation, Adeleye stated, “About a year ago, we arrested a suspect who led us to the apprehension of his sponsors.
“They were subsequently prosecuted and are currently in correctional centres.
“Our investigations are thorough, and we ensure that suspects are charged before competent courts where they receive appropriate penalties.”
Adeleye commended the efforts of the Armoured Rangers and other divisions of the security network, highlighting their effective collaboration with other security agencies.
However, due to the vast expanse of forest land, he encouraged farmers and residents to utilise the Amotekun distress hotline (0807999989) to report any suspicious activities.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will bring lasting relief from the fear and anxiety caused by recent security challenges.
Signed
Akinbiola Funmilayo
ACIO, FIC AKURE
24/03/2025
