By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State House of Assembly has invited the Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Security, Olugbenga Atiba, and the State Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, to brief lawmakers on the state of security on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Olamide Oladiji, the House extensively debated the increasing cases of kidnapping in the state and passed several resolutions.

The lawmakers urged security agencies to adopt more aggressive strategies to combat the growing threat of kidnapping. They also stressed the need for the government to provide public orientation on the issue, while local government chairmen should not only protect their communities but also employ local vigilantes to support existing security structures.

As part of its resolutions, the House called on the Ondo State Government to engage traditional rulers and community leaders as key stakeholders in addressing the kidnapping menace.

It also emphasised the need for expedited hearings on kidnapping cases in various courts to ensure swift justice, which would serve as a deterrent to criminals.

Furthermore, security agencies should be equipped with sophisticated technology and resources to enhance their effectiveness.

The Assembly urged the Federal Government to reconsider the establishment of state police and ensure they are well-equipped.

Additionally, lawmakers emphasised the need to recruit more personnel into the Amotekun Corps, revive the Anti-Kidnapping Law, and improve the welfare of Amotekun officers to boost their productivity.

During deliberations, lawmakers noted that kidnapping has become a persistent problem in Nigeria. They highlighted recent incidents, including the abduction of nine surveyors in Ilu-Abo, Akure North Local Government area, and the brutal attack at Alajido and Sunday Camp farm settlements, where nine lives were lost to suspected herdsmen.

The House condemned these acts, describing them as direct attacks on the safety and livelihoods of innocent citizens. Lawmakers vowed not to allow Ondo State to become a safe haven for criminals, stressing that while law-abiding Nigerians are welcome, those disguising as farmers to perpetrate crimes will not be tolerated.

They called on security agencies,including the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Amotekun Corps to increase patrols, enhance surveillance, and collaborate with local vigilantes.

The House declared that criminals must understand that Ondo State will no longer be a safe haven for them.

Additionally, traditional rulers, community leaders, and village heads were urged to remain vigilant and collaborate with security agencies. The State Government was also advised to deploy necessary financial and material resources to enhance security operations.

The lawmakers further called on the people of Ondo State to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

“Ondo State belongs to us all, and we must not allow kidnappers to take it from us,” the House stated.