Ekiti State has stepped up security operations across its border communities following increasing cases of kidnappings and violent attacks in neighbouring states.
Although the state has largely remained peaceful, recent security breaches in some border settlements have prompted authorities to intensify surveillance and preventive measures.
Concern grew after gunmen attacked a church programme in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, on April 28. The assailants killed a pastor and abducted several worshippers into a nearby forest.
As a result, the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, said security agencies had launched fresh operations to prevent criminals from establishing bases in the state. He said personnel from the police, military, DSS, NSCDC, Amotekun and local vigilantes were involved in the exercise.
Falade further noted that the first phase of the operation recorded successes, including pushing suspected kidnappers and bandits away from communities bordering Kwara and Kogi states.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, retired Brig.-Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana, expressed optimism that the abducted worshippers would regain their freedom. He said security operatives in Ekiti and Kwara were working together to secure their release.
Ogundana maintained that the attacks recorded in some communities were isolated incidents. According to him, continuous forest-clearing operations and intelligence gathering have helped to keep criminal activities under control.
In the same vein, Governor Biodun Oyebanji assured residents that his administration would continue to support security agencies and make the state uncomfortable for criminals. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and provide useful information to security operatives ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
