Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the establishment of a new military formation in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen security and prevent future attacks in the border community.
The governor also directed the immediate completion of the divisional police station under construction in the community, describing it as critical to improving security and protecting lives and property.
Governor Oyebanji gave the directives on Tuesday in Ado Ekiti while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo, led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola.
Eda Oniyo came under attack on 28 April when armed kidnappers invaded a Christ Apostolic Church during a service.
The attackers killed the church pastor and abducted 16 worshippers, including women and children.
One of the victims, an 80-year-old woman, died while in captivity before the remaining abductees regained their freedom about 66 days later after a ransom of N25.5 million was reportedly paid to the kidnappers in a forest outside Ekiti State.
Following their rescue, Governor Oyebanji directed that all the victims receive comprehensive medical treatment and psychological support at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.
“I have instructed that the state will bear the cost of their treatment and everything that happens between now and when they leave here. I will also talk to psychologists to talk to them with a view to integrating them with their family members,” the governor had said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding every part of the state, stressing that no community would be left vulnerable to criminal activities.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the creation of state police, describing the initiative as a timely step towards addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
According to Oyebanji, security agencies, including the military, police and other security outfits, have continued regular patrols around the border community to prevent criminal incursions from neighbouring states.
“This government is here to protect and serve you, and the only way we can serve you better is by your cooperation. I have listened to your request; the construction of the police station is ongoing, and I will ensure the speedy completion,” he said.
The governor further instructed his Special Adviser on Security Matters, retired Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana, to commence plans for the new military base.
“I want a military base at Eda Oniyo. It is extremely important; whatever it is going to cost us, bring it to me, I will approve it,” Mr Oyebanji stated.
Community expresses appreciation
Speaking on behalf of the traditional ruler, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressives Union, Dr Rufus Ojo, thanked the governor for his response to the community’s recent security crisis.
He praised the state government for providing medical treatment for the rescued victims and appealed for agricultural investments in the area to boost economic activities and improve security.
According to Ojo, expanding farming activities would help strengthen livelihoods while discouraging criminal activities in the border community.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser on Media Yinka Oyebode, members of the Eda Oniyo Progressives Union and relatives of the rescued victims.
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