Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who also serves as the Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, announced on Wednesday that governors in the South are strengthening regional security efforts in response to reports of terrorist infiltration into the region.
Abiodun revealed that he has mobilised his colleagues to establish a robust platform for intelligence sharing and operational synergy to protect lives and property across the Southern states. This comes amidst growing concerns following the military’s crackdown on bandits in the North-West, which has reportedly driven them to seek refuge in the South.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State recently warned of an increasing influx of bandits into Oyo, fleeing military onslaughts in the North-West. Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers at the Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde assured residents that his administration is determined to tackle the threat.
He explained that the ongoing military operations, including aerial bombardments of bandit hideouts in the North-West, have forced criminals to relocate to other states, including Oyo. “We are resolute in our efforts to smoke out these bandits and eliminate them,” Makinde said.
Governor Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, detailed the steps being taken by Southern governors to address the security challenges.
“The principles and strategies recommended for the collective good of the South include protection of lives and property, prevention of crime, community policing, economic development, enforcement of human rights, intelligence gathering, and fostering understanding among security agencies, government departments, and stakeholders to achieve a unified security approach,” Akinmade said.
He noted that Abiodun has consistently funded security agencies in Ogun State and is now extending this approach to the Southern Governors’ Forum. “Operational vehicles, technological communication tools, and combat equipment are continually provided to boost security agencies’ motivation and performance,” he added.
Abiodun emphasised the importance of collaboration among the states to share intelligence and develop strategies to address common security threats. “The governors share information and review crime control strategies through meetings, calls, interstate visits, and correspondence,” he said.
A source within the Department of State Services confirmed that several terrorists have been arrested in the South-West as part of proactive security measures.
“Sure, we’ve received intelligence reports even before their arrival. The directorate has put in place proactive measures and strategies to arrest them,” the source said. “Many of them have been arrested in some states in the South-West. Members of the public should remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.”
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Chairman of the South-West Amotekun Commanders, assured residents that the regional security outfit is prepared to confront any threats.
“We are not unmindful of the speculation of the influx of terrorists into the South-West,” Adeleye said. “The state governors and the Amotekun corps across the South-West states are strategising so that we are not taken by surprise. Residents should rest assured that we are ready for them.”
Chief Olugbenga Atiba, Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Security Matters, outlined steps being taken to safeguard the state.
These include joint border patrols with neighbouring states, military and paramilitary clearance operations, and the provision of logistical support to security agencies. “We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” Atiba said.
The Yoruba Council of Elders expressed concern over the infiltration of bandits into Yorubaland and urged Southern governors to act decisively.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Chief Oladipo Oyewole, the YCE said: “The infiltration of bandits into the forests of North-West to Osun and Oyo states is of great concern. The Governments of Osun, Oyo, and Lagos cannot and must not relax. Law enforcement agencies must also prepare.”
The YCE called for proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property. “We urge all agencies of government, both Federal and States, to be proactive in this unanimous struggle to chase them out,” Oyewole added.
With Southern governors, security agencies, and community leaders working in tandem, the region is taking significant steps to counter the emerging security threats. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to ensure the safety of their communities.