The influx of bandits and terrorists into the South-West region of Nigeria has sparked concerns and calls for collaboration between local security groups, traditional rulers, and state governments. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
- Increased Security Threats
- Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State recently raised an alarm about the movement of fleeing bandits from the North-Central to the South-West.
- Groups like the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Hunters Association, and Amotekun Corps have expressed their readiness to combat these threats but lack full government support.
- Security Groups’ Call for Collaboration
- Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, criticized South-West governors for not partnering with his security group, the Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG).
- The OPC and other grassroots security outfits have written letters to governors and traditional rulers, seeking permission and collaboration to fight insecurity, but responses have been limited or nonexistent.
- State-Specific Challenges
- Ondo State: Reports suggest that the government has not adequately involved local groups like the OPC in its security efforts.
- Osun State: The OPC awaits collaboration with the state government, despite being on standby with 36,000 members across all local government areas.
- Amotekun Corps: The South-West Security Network has taken steps to counter the influx of criminals, foiling multiple kidnapping attempts and enforcing anti-grazing laws.
- Arrested 21 suspected criminals in Ondo State, including kidnappers, violators of anti-grazing laws, and others involved in theft and conspiracy.
- Foiled 15 kidnapping attempts in a month and reduced breaches at state borders.
- Committed to ensuring the South-West remains inhospitable for terrorists through undisclosed security strategies.
- Lack of Government Response: Security groups need formal approval and operational support from state governors to function effectively.
- Underutilization of Resources: With thousands of members ready to act, the OPC and other groups feel sidelined.
- Communication Gaps: Letters to state officials and traditional rulers have largely gone unanswered.
- Urgent Collaboration
- State governments must formalize partnerships with local security groups to bolster regional security.
- Empower Grassroots Security
- Equip groups like the OPC and Hunters Association with necessary tools, funding, and recognition to combat insecurity effectively.
- Community Involvement
- Traditional rulers and local leaders should be actively involved in mobilizing and supporting grassroots efforts to secure border towns and forests.
- Strengthened Amotekun Operations
- Enhance the capacity of Amotekun Corps through funding, logistics, and technology to sustain their proactive measures.
The South-West region has proven its resilience in the past, and with better coordination between state authorities and grassroots security stakeholders, it can overcome the current wave of insecurity.
