The Osun State Government has confirmed a banditry attack on Ora Igbomina, a border community in Ifedayo Local Government Area, describing it as a serious security breach. Governor Ademola Adeleke announced on Thursday that a military-backed rescue and protection operation has been underway for the past three days to secure the release of the kidnapped victims.
Governor Adeleke, speaking after an emergency State Security Council meeting in Osogbo, commiserated with residents and assured that the state was working closely with security agencies to prevent a recurrence, particularly in border communities. “From the moment of the unfortunate incident, our security forces have launched a rescue and protection operation. A delicate operation is ongoing, and we do not want to jeopardise the integrity of the process,” he said in a press statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.
Residents of Ora Igbomina expressed fear and frustration over the attack. High Chief Sunday Fadipe, a local leader, recounted that gunmen stormed the town around 7:00 p.m., targeting the residence of a former customs officer. “The attackers laid an ambush and abducted him. While escaping, they encountered a man working on his farm with a headlamp and shot him dead. His 10-year-old son ran into town to report the killing,” Fadipe told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Governor Adeleke also announced plans to strengthen security logistics across the state, including the deployment of refurbished armoured tanks and additional patrol vehicles. He issued new operational guidelines for the Osun Amotekun Corps, mandating closer coordination with the Nigeria Police to ensure synergy in future operations. “Working in silos will no longer be tolerated. Amotekun services must always involve the police in their operations,” he said.
Local residents appealed for faster action to ensure their safety. “We live in fear every night. We need the government and security agencies to do more. People are scared to go out, even during the day,” said one resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The governor, acknowledging the concerns, urged citizens to limit night-time activities, particularly during the festive season.
The attack in Ora Igbomina is the latest in a series of security challenges affecting border communities in Osun State. Governor Adeleke reiterated his commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to remain vigilant while security forces continue their operations
About the Author
Discover more from VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
