The Osun State Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Adeleke, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices in safeguarding the country's unity and territorial integrity, while drawing attention to emerging security threats facing the state.
The governor made the remarks on Saturday during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, at the Government House in Osogbo, and at the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruits of the Nigerian Army.
Represented at the parade by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, Adeleke praised the military for its sustained operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.
According to him, the nation's continued existence as a united entity is largely due to the patriotism and sacrifices of members of the armed forces.
"The Nigerian Army has continued to distinguish itself in the defence of our nation against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats. I sincerely commend your courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of our nation," the governor said.
While describing Osun as one of Nigeria's most peaceful states, Adeleke expressed concern over recent security developments, saying the state's peaceful atmosphere was being threatened by political violence.
He alleged that members of the Accord Party had been targeted and killed by armed political thugs allegedly linked to the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that such violence was alien to the state's culture.
The governor recalled receiving a delegation from the Inspector-General of Police led by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West, who conveyed directives aimed at restoring law and order in the state.
Adeleke also identified what he described as major security concerns requiring urgent military attention.
According to him, the first is the increasing proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition in Osun State, which he warned could fuel criminal activities if not addressed.
He also raised concerns over intelligence reports indicating the influx of suspected bandits into parts of Osun East Senatorial District under the guise of mining activities.
In addition, the governor warned that kidnapping activities from neighbouring Oyo and Kwara states were gradually extending into border communities in Osun, making stronger security measures necessary.
To address the challenges, Adeleke appealed to the Nigerian Army to establish military checkpoints along strategic entry and exit routes across the state.
The proposed locations include Ila–Ikirun Road, Ikirun–Kwara Border Road, Gbongan–Osogbo Road, Iwo–Osogbo Road, Ijebu-Jesa–Ekiti Road, Ife–Sekona Road, Ogbomoso–Ejigbo Road and Ilesa–Osogbo Road.
Responding, the Chief of Army Staff commended the existing partnership between the Nigerian Army and the Osun State Government.
He assured the governor of the Army's continued collaboration with the state to enhance security and protect residents.
Shaibu also reaffirmed the Army's commitment to sustaining operations against banditry and insurgency, noting that recruitment and training programmes had been strengthened to ensure soldiers are adequately prepared for modern security challenges.
