Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed deep concern over the growing presence of bandits in the State, vowing to intensify efforts to maintain security and protect residents.
Speaking at the 2025 annual interfaith service for Oyo State workers held in Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde revealed that during his last birthday retreat, he received intelligence indicating that bandits had established a camp just two kilometers away from where he was staying.
The governor attributed the influx of these criminal elements to intensified military operations in the North-West, which have forced the gunmen to seek refuge in other regions, including Oyo State.
“In 2024, we faced significant challenges, from fire outbreaks to armed robberies and kidnappings,” Makinde stated. “This year, we are determined to address these issues head-on. Just this morning, I was briefed about the relocation of criminal elements from the North-West to our state. We will track them down and ensure they find no hiding place here.”
Makinde called on traditional rulers and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly.
“To our royal fathers and all citizens of Oyo State, I urge you to be proactive. If you notice anything unusual in your area, report it immediately. We must work together to protect our state.”
The governor assured the people that his administration would not relent until every corner of the state was secure.
“For us in Oyo, these bandits will have no foothold. I will not rest until every inch of this state is safe,” Makinde declared, reaffirming his commitment to making Oyo State a secure haven for all.
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Bandits camped 2km Away From Where I marked my last birthday – Gov Makinde
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has decried the influx of bandits, vowing to do all within his power to ensure the state is safe.
Speaking during the 2025 annual inter-faith service for Oyo workers in the Agodi area of Ibadan, the state capital, Makinde narrated how he got intelligence that bandits were not far from where he marked his last birthday.
The governor said the gunmen were feeling the heat of military operation in the North West, hence the decision to escape to Oyo.
He said: “The year 2024 was challenging, particularly in terms of safety and security. We had incidents of fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. However, in 2025, we will redouble our efforts to address these issues.”
“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them. During my birthday retreat, bandits had camped less than two kilometers from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”
The governor urged residents and traditional rulers to report any suspicious movements.
“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately.”
For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe,” Makinde noted.
