Bandits From North West Are Relocating To Oyo – Gov Makinde

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has raised alarm on the movement of criminal elements from North West region of the country into the state.

Governor Makinde disclosed that bandits had already set their camps Fashola area of the state. He, however, assured that his administration would ensure all criminal elements are made to face the law.

He stated this while speaking at 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for State Workers. The Inter-faith Service was attended by Labour leaders, workers, political appointees, community leaders, members of the judiciary and traditional rulers.

“The year 2024 has been a challenging year, even in terms of safety and security. We had a few fire incidents, armed robberies, and kidnappings, but what I would say is that we will redouble our efforts in 2025. Some of these issues, we will tackle squarely.

“Even just this morning, during the security briefing, we received updates about a special operation currently underway. Quite a number of the wrongdoers from the major northwestern zone are relocating here. But we will locate them, and we will deal with them.

“Because of the stampede last year, I chose to go to Fashola, just to lay low for my birthday, and I can tell you that within less than perhaps one and a half kilometres from where I was sleeping, there were bandits with camps established there,” he said.

The Oyo State Governor commended security agencies for their efforts in fighting crimes and criminality in the state.

While commending traditional rulers and community leaders for their support to his government, Makinde charged them to report every suspicious movement to security agencies and the government.

“So I would like to take this opportunity to thank our service commanders. You have been doing your part, and you have done very well for us in Oyo State. Nothing meaningful can occur in an atmosphere of insecurity. All the laudable things that we wish to achieve will not be possible if we don’t have a safe and secure environment.

“I want to encourage all of us; we come from different locations, we are from various zones, and our traditional rulers, you are the custodians of the environment within your domain. This is no joke; it’s a serious issue, and for us in Oyo State, they will never gain a foothold here. I will not rest until every inch of Oyo State is free of bandits and wrongdoers.

“But you must also do your part. If you see any suspicious movement, please report it to the authorities, and we will take action. It is in our collective interest,” the Governor added.

Recall that Naijaonpoint reported that Makinde at the event, also vowed to prosecute people involved in the Ibadan stampede. He said no amount of appeal would make him bow down from following the rule of law.