The Ondo State Government has established a joint security task force to address the security challenges affecting residents, while the state’s Amotekun Corps has apprehended at least 32 suspected kidnappers hiding in the state’s forests.
This initiative follows recent attacks by suspected bandits, who killed and kidnapped several people in different parts of the state. In one incident, the assailants invaded the Aba Oyinbo community in Akure North Local Government Area, killing five farmers. The attack triggered protests by farmers in Akure, the state capital. Days earlier, suspected herdsmen attacked four communities, Ademekun, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Aba Alajido also in Akure North, resulting in the deaths of 14 farmers.
Addressing journalists in Akure on Sunday, the state Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had deployed a joint security patrol team, comprising the army, police, NSCDC, and Amotekun, to the affected areas.
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“We want to assure residents that they can resume their farming activities without fear. The government has set up a joint task force to stabilize the remote areas of Akure North where these attacks have occurred. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve road access in these locations to ensure quick response during emergencies,” Adeleye stated.
He further explained that the government had taken proactive measures by establishing Amotekun security posts in the affected areas to prevent criminals from returning after the security team withdraws.
Speaking on the recent arrests, Adeleye disclosed that 32 suspected kidnappers were captured across four local government areas—Akure South, Akure North, Ose, and Akoko North-East—through coordinated operations by Amotekun officers and other security agencies.
“In recent times, Ondo State has experienced a rise in criminal activities, including kidnappings. Our officers, with support from neighboring local governments, launched operations into forest reserves and other known hideouts. Over the past week, we arrested 32 suspected kidnappers, who are currently undergoing interrogation. In total, we are parading 58 suspects today,” he added.
Adeleye emphasized that security forces have restored order in the affected communities, particularly in Ago Dada, Ago Oyinbo, and Ago Ademekun, as part of ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability across the state.
