By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday, distributed 25 Toyota Hilux vehicles to Security Agencies across the State.

This initiative aims to support them in fulfilling their duties, particularly in safeguarding the lives and property of the people of Ondo State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that as an integral part of government functionaries, it is no gainsaying that security agencies are pivotal to the overall security architecture of any society and this daunting task would sometimes require patroling from one location to another.

The Governor acknowledged Late Arakunrin Akeredolu who recorded giant strides and left lasting legacies in the area of security, especially with the frontal role he played in the birth of South West Security Network code-named Amotekun Corps.

“Since I assumed Office as Governor, I have consistently emphasised the need for all security stakeholders and State actors to work as one for the ultimate goals of securing lives and property of our dear State notwithstanding the differences in security approaches and modus operandi of these agencies.

It is noteworthy to equally state that during the build-up days to elections, there is usually a surge in insecurity and criminal activities hence, these vehicles have come at a good time to serve as a motivation in the discharge of the ever-tasking security responsibilities of our agencies in Ondo State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the efforts of the security agencies in ensuring that the people can sleep at night with their two eyes closed must not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated for it.

“It should be noted that these vehicles are in addition to the regular logistic support we have been providing for all our security outfits. We recognize the importance of equipping our security agencies with the needed materials to combat crime and maintain law and order in our State”.

While assuring the security agencies that this kind of intervention shall continue subject to availability of funds, he charged them to make good use of the vehicles and continue to work tirelessly to keep the State safe.

The Governor assured the people of the State that his administration will not relent in creating a secure and prosperous environment for all.

“I want to say emphatically that our Administration will continue to support the security agencies in the discharge of their duties as we place premium on the safety of lives and property of our people. So, those that had not benefitted from this batch will definitely have theirs soon”, he concluded.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi State that the present administration in Ondo State has been at the forefront of providing needed logistics and ambience to enable security agencies carry out their functions effectively, add a sense of heightened security alertness, handle security issues in an efficient manner and promote sense of order.

“His excellency, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, knowing the importance of adequate security in our State has continued to encourage synergy among security agencies and we are all witness to its results on a daily basis.

“Going forward, insecurity has become a recurring problem that threatens the well-being of citizens, however, it is my pleasure to let you know that the present government will not relent in its resolve to rid the State of crimes. The government is determined to fulfil and defend its social contract with the food people of Ondo State, by mobilizing needed stakeholders and machineries to ensure the safety of our people”.

While appreciating the Governor for fulfilling his his promise, Oluwatuyi commended the security chiefs and other security stakeholders for maintaining peace and harmony in the neighborhood.

The State commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Commandant Ibiloye Oluyemi, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for making the security of the statw his administration’s priority. He said that thw vehicles will be deployed to curb all forms of security menace that are within and around the State, stressing that the availability of the vehicles will further boost their machinery to be able to deal with cases of criminality.

Also, the State commisoner of Police, CP Abayomi Oladipo appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for his good gestures, noting that it will serve some significant purpose in making visibility policing available in the raods of the State. He have his assurance that the vehicles will be used for the purpose for which they are meant to serve the good people of Ondo State.

In attendance were ; The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, State Commissioners, Special Advisers, Ondo State House of Assembly members led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Traditional rulers, Heads of security operatives in the State, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, among others.