Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has initiated a strong campaign to tackle the spread of illicit drug sales, especially within motor parks across the state.
At a stakeholders’ forum held under the Community Safety Partnership Initiative, Afolabi voiced deep concern over a spike in cult-related violence in Ondo City, which has resulted in several deaths in the past few weeks. The meeting was organized to gather direct input from residents about the region’s security challenges and to strengthen cooperation between law enforcement and local communities.
The Community Safety Partnership Initiative is designed to foster trust and active participation from community members in maintaining law and order. During the session, some participants alleged that political figures were arming youths for their own interests, contributing to the rise in violence.
Youth leader Akintomide Akinkuolie, criticized the police for allegedly arresting innocent people at bus stops and requesting bribes for their release.
Akintayo Richard, Chairman of the Ondo Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), urged the Commissioner to seek assistance from federal lawmakers in securing vital security tools such as patrol vehicles and motorbikes.
Commercial drivers at the meeting highlighted growing drug trafficking activities in motor parks, which they said were fueling violent conflicts. They called for surveillance upgrades, including the installation of CCTV cameras in high-risk areas like bus stations and hotels. Another stakeholder, **Akinsebikan**, suggested enacting local laws to control the actions of scavengers, blaming them for disturbances in the region.
In response, Afolabi pledged to eliminate the drug trade in motor parks across Ondo East, Ondo West, and Ile-Oluji/Oke Igbo. He also promised increased patrols throughout these local government areas to deter criminals. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with local security groups, including hunters and vigilantes, to fight cultism and related offenses.
Afolabi urged residents to report any suspicious behavior, assuring them of confidentiality and sharing his personal phone number for direct communication.
“We’re returning to the strategy table to thoroughly address the issues of drug peddling and cult violence. These matters will be decisively handled,” Afolabi assured.
Following the meeting, Ayotunde Akinfolaranmi, Chairman of Ondo West Local Government Area, praised the initiative as a crucial step toward addressing the area’s security concerns.
Benjamin, the Vice Chairman of Ile-Oluji/Oke Igbo Local Government (representing the council chair), also commended the Commissioner’s open approach, saying the sharing of his personal contact would improve transparency and police accountability.
