We’ll continue to make Ondo safe for all – Gov Aiyedatiwa

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring lasting peace and security across the state, assuring residents that Ondo will remain safe for everyone.

The Governor gave the assurance while receiving Sarkin Hausa in Ondo State and representatives of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) at the government house on Friday.

He said while the state currently enjoys relative peace, his government will continue to strengthen security structures to prevent criminal activities such as kidnapping and farmstead attacks.

“We cannot stop talking about security, because it is the first mandate of any government. Every one of us must be part of it. This government will continue to work with community leaders, security agencies and our people to ensure Ondo remains safe for all, irrespective of their location or faith, every life is important”.

He added that suspects arrested over the Owo terror attack in 2022 are already facing trial, noting that justice will serve as a deterrent to others. The Governor also emphasized the role of the Amotekun Corps, vigilantes, and community leaders in intelligence gathering, urging Hausa and Fulani leaders to help identify criminal elements hiding among them.

Earlier, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Jamiu Ekungba said the dialogue was aimed at fostering unity, promoting religious tolerance, and strengthening security across communities.

He explained that while incidents of insecurity are often hastily linked to herders, most of such allegations turn out to be false. Strengthening collaboration, he said, will not only prevent wrongful accusations but also enable proactive measures against criminal elements who might attempt to tarnish the reputation of law-abiding Fulani residents.

Speaking on behalf of other Serikis, Barr. Abdusalam Musa commended the Governor’s peaceful disposition and visible development projects across the state, while appealing for more support in the areas of security, health care and welfare of Hausa/Fulani community leaders.

In attendance were; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji AbdulAkeem Yahi Akorede, State Commandant of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, Mr Olugbenga Atiba, Senior Special Assistant on Community engagement, Central, Mr Femi Fadairo, Senior Special Assistant on political matters, Mr Smart Omodunbi, among others.