By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Ogun State Government on Monday ordered the immediate dismantling of the Zaga settlement in the Ijebu axis following heightened security threats recorded within the area and across the country. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the decision after a high-level security meeting with heads of security agencies held in Iperu-Remo.
Abiodun stated that the government was taking over the Zaga enclave to prevent its continued use for unlawful activities, emphasizing that the state would no longer tolerate any community or settlement serving as a haven for criminal elements. He issued a stern warning to landlords across the state, cautioning them against accommodating individuals with questionable characters.
“Landlords and individuals found to be accommodating miscreants or criminal elements will be decisively dealt with in line with the law,” the governor declared. He added that a strategic meeting would soon be convened with leaders of non-indigene communities to deepen cooperation and enhance collective security efforts.
The governor also announced that the activities of scavengers would now be strictly regulated to curb criminal infiltration, noting that many illicit acts are often perpetrated under the guise of scavenging. Security agencies, he said, have been directed to intensify operations to flush out criminal hideouts within forests and government reserves.
Abiodun extended his warnings to traditional leaders, stating that any Baale found allocating land to strangers or entering into unauthorized land agreements without government approval would be held fully accountable. “All land belongs to the government. No Kabiyesi or Baale has the authority to allocate land to strangers,” he said, pledging swift legal action against defaulters.
The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and acknowledged the progress made by security agencies in rescuing kidnap victims in the Niger/Kwara axis. He emphasized that Ogun, as Nigeria’s industrial hub and gateway state, must remain vigilant and proactive in its security management.
To strengthen internal safety, Governor Abiodun unveiled several new measures, including mandatory documentation of all foreign nationals, the establishment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ilara (Yewa North), regulation of scavenger activities, intensified forest surveillance, a crackdown on illegal mining, and an ongoing investigation into the Ajebo non-indigene settlement.
Assuring residents of continued peace and protection, the governor stressed that economic development can only thrive in a secure environment. He praised the contributions of local hunters and promised sustained government support for conventional security agencies.
Abiodun appealed to citizens to support government efforts by providing timely and credible information. “Security is a joint responsibility,” he said. “We encourage residents to give prompt information to enable effective response by law enforcement.”
