Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has raised fresh concerns over the movement of bandits into Osun from neighbouring states, particularly Kwara.
He warned that the threat is real and called for stronger and sustained military action along the state’s border communities.
The governor spoke on Saturday in Osogbo during the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake at the Nigerian Army Depot.
He described the event as a critical moment for national security and a reminder of the central role of the Nigerian Army in defending the country.
Adeleke praised the Nigerian Army for its long-standing contribution to peace and stability across Nigeria. He said the military, working with other security agencies, has continued to stand firm against terrorism, banditry and other security challenges threatening the nation.
According to the governor, Osun has benefited greatly from its cooperation with the military.
He noted that the state remains one of the most peaceful in the country because of the commitment and sacrifices of security personnel deployed across its communities.
“For us as a state government, we have enjoyed a very close partnership with the Nigerian Army and the entire military establishment. From my hometown and across the state, our engagement with servicemen has continued to deliver peace and stability,” he said.
The governor disclosed that soldiers are already carrying out special security operations in towns located along the Osun–Kwara boundary.
He said the mission is aimed at stopping banditry, kidnapping and any possible infiltration into Osun communities.
“Our dear Army Chief, your men are currently around the border towns between Osun and Kwara States conducting special operations to contain banditry and kidnapping. We are very grateful for this support,” Adeleke added.
While appreciating the ongoing deployment, the governor appealed for the operations to be sustained. He stressed that constant military presence is necessary to keep Osun safe and prevent criminals from exploiting border areas.
Adeleke also addressed the newly passed-out recruits, urging them to uphold discipline, loyalty and professionalism. He reminded them that they were joining an institution widely seen as the backbone of the nation’s security.
“You have a duty to remain loyal to the Nigerian Army, the Constitution and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he told the recruits.
Beyond security operations, the governor called on political leaders to embrace dialogue and cooperation in resolving governance issues. He said political stability would reduce pressure on the military and allow security agencies to focus fully on protecting lives and property.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for promoting inclusive governance, noting that unity at the political level would strengthen national security and peace.
Adeleke assured that his administration remains committed to peaceful engagement and harmony across Osun State. He said this approach would continue to support the work of security agencies.
The parade attracted senior military officers, traditional rulers, government officials, serving and retired personnel, other security operatives and members of the media.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Government had earlier confirmed a banditry attack on Ora Igbomina, a border community in the state. The incident prompted an emergency State Security Council meeting in Osogbo.
Following the meeting, the governor sympathised with residents affected by the attack, describing the incident as a serious security breach.
He assured that a military-backed rescue and protection operation had been ongoing for several days.
“Governor Adeleke of Osun state has commiserated with the people of Ora Igbomina over recent banditry attacks, assuring that a military backed rescue and protection security operation has been underway for the past three days.”
“Speaking after an emergency security council meeting held on Wednesday evening, the Governor described the Ora incident as saddening and a major security breach even after almost all the water tight pre-emptive precautions already put in place in the last three months.”
The governor said the state government is working closely with security agencies to rescue victims and prevent a repeat of such attacks, especially in border areas.