Ekiti Governor Urges Nigeria Police Force to Deploy More Personnel Ahead of Election Season
Ado Ekiti, Nigeria – Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has appealed to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to increase its deployment of personnel to the state, with a particular focus on border towns, to bolster security and curb criminal activities. The call comes as the state prepares for an upcoming election season, which could heighten security challenges.
Speaking during a meeting in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the need for intensified police efforts to address vulnerabilities in rural areas. He received the newly appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone 17, which encompasses Ondo and Ekiti States, Mr. Musibau Omolabi.
The governor highlighted that while Ekiti remains one of the safest states in Nigeria, inadequate security coverage in remote and border regions has left residents exposed to threats, undermining public safety and economic stability.
“Ekiti has made significant strides in maintaining peace, but we cannot afford to be complacent,” Oyebanji stated. He pointed out that criminal activities, such as kidnapping and banditry, have decreased due to the collaborative efforts of the police and the state government.
However, he stressed the urgency of reinforcing security measures as the election period approaches, which often sees an uptick in potential unrest.
The governor commended the NPF for its role in creating a conducive environment for investors, attributing the decline in crime rates to their dedication. “The activities of the police force have helped reduce the spate of criminality in the state and have also created a conducive environment for investors,” he said.
Oyebanji assured the new AIG of the administration’s unwavering support, pledging resources and partnerships to ensure the safety of lives and property across Ekiti.
In his remarks, the governor directly addressed AIG Omolabi, saying, “You said you are here to work; we are also ready to work with you. We will continue to partner and support the police force because the personnel have added value to us.
We are lucky in the state that the rate of kidnapping, banditry, and criminality has gone down tremendously, and that speaks to the hard work and the cooperation we enjoy together. I must thank the Commissioner of Police for that.”
AIG Omolabi, who assumed his role recently, responded positively, assuring the governor of his commitment to enhancing security in the zone. He outlined plans to work closely with state authorities to address emerging threats and improve community policing.
This development underscores ongoing efforts by Nigerian state governments to strengthen law enforcement amid rising security concerns nationwide.
Ekiti’s proactive approach aligns with broader national initiatives to tackle issues like banditry and electoral violence, especially as the country gears up for key elections.
Governor Oyebanji’s call for additional personnel is seen as a timely measure to safeguard the state’s progress, with stakeholders hoping it will lead to more robust security frameworks in the region.
The state government has promised to facilitate the necessary logistics to support the police deployment, emphasizing a shared responsibility for peace and development.
