The Ondo State House of Assembly has raised concerns over the increasing insecurity in the state, urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take more decisive measures to address the situation.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, the Majority Leader, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, highlighted the deteriorating security conditions, noting that residents no longer feel safe.
He cited a recent kidnapping incident involving a family of three in his constituency as an example of the growing threats.
“Ondo State has become a place where people can no longer sleep peacefully. Security agencies must intensify their efforts. While they are trying, it is not enough,” Ogunmolasuyi stated.
He also called for the Amotekun Corps to be equipped with sophisticated weapons to effectively tackle criminals.
Acknowledging the governor’s efforts, Ogunmolasuyi emphasized that more needed to be done.
He urged Aiyedatiwa to hold security chiefs accountable and replace any non-performing officers.
He also called on traditional rulers to take a proactive role in protecting their communities.
Other lawmakers echoed similar concerns. Olatunji Oshati (APC-Ose Constituency) recommended that Amotekun work with local governments to establish vigilante groups, while Kolawole Ologede (APC-Akure North) decried the activities of herders, which he said had forced many farmers off their lands.
Stephen Abitogun (APC-Akure South 2) suggested forming a joint security task force to patrol forests and eliminate criminal hideouts.
He also advocated for providing security agencies with modern surveillance tools.
Additionally, he called for the establishment of a state police force to enhance security operations.
Victor Japheth (APC-Akoko North East) urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to collaborate with his counterparts in Ekiti and Edo States to strengthen regional security. Olatunji Ifabiyi (APC-Odigbo 1) criticized the lackluster approach of some leaders toward security issues and stressed the importance of intelligence gathering in combating crime.
Summarizing the Assembly’s resolutions, Speaker Olamide Oladiji condemned all forms of criminal activity, stating that recent security breaches had led to loss of lives and property.
He urged the governor to intensify his efforts and ensure that those responsible for criminal activities are arrested and prosecuted.
The House also called for improved welfare for security personnel and the recruitment of more officers into Amotekun.
Additionally, the lawmakers summoned the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, Gbenga Atiba, and the Amotekun Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, to appear before the Assembly by March 25 for a security briefing.
The plenary session was adjourned until March 19.
