Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has ordered the establishment of an additional military formation in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security in the state’s border communities and prevent future attacks by criminal elements.
The governor also directed the immediate completion of the Divisional Police Station currently under construction in the community, describing the project as critical to improving security and protecting lives and property in the area.
Oyebanji gave the directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, who paid him a thank-you visit following the government’s intervention during the community’s recent security challenges.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents across the state, stressing that no community would be abandoned to criminals.
“This government is here to protect and serve the people. The only way we can serve you better is through your cooperation. The construction of the police station is ongoing, and I will ensure its speedy completion. I also want a military base in Eda Oniyo because it is extremely important. Whatever it will cost, bring it to me, and I will approve it,” the governor said.
Oyebanji disclosed that a combined team of soldiers, police officers and other security agencies had already intensified routine patrols around the border community to prevent criminals from neighbouring states from infiltrating Ekiti.
He also acknowledged that Eda Oniyo had witnessed slow infrastructural development over the years due to the prolonged legal dispute over the headquarters of Ilejemeje Local Government.
The governor, however, assured residents that his administration would prioritise the transformation of the community to reflect its status as the local government headquarters.
The governor further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the creation of state police, describing the initiative as a bold and timely response to Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
Earlier, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ojo, who spoke on behalf of the traditional ruler, said the visit was to express the community’s appreciation to the governor for his swift intervention during the recent security crisis.
He praised the governor’s handling of the situation, particularly the deployment of security personnel and the provision of medical care for victims rescued from kidnappers.
Dr Ojo also appealed to the state government to harness the area’s vast agricultural potential through large-scale farming projects, noting that such investments would boost economic activity, create employment opportunities, and further enhance security in the community.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; the Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; the Special Adviser on Security, Brig.-Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (retd.); the Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; members of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union; and relatives of victims recently rescued from kidnappers.
