I n a decisive move to tackle rising security threats, the South-West Governors’ Forum has announced the formation of a joint security surveillance team to address the infiltration of terrorists linked to the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the region.
The decision was reached during a high-level meeting held at the Lagos State Government House in Alausa, Ikeja. Attended by Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), the forum expressed grave concerns over the presence of ISWAP operatives in South-West forests.
Governor Makinde had earlier raised alarms over the migration of bandits from the North-West into Oyo State, warning that they could pose a serious security challenge. His concerns were further validated when the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested ten suspected ISWAP members in Ilesa, Osun State, earlier this year.
Following four hours of deliberation, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who chairs the Forum, announced a series of measures to curb terrorist activities, including:
- The establishment of a Joint Surveillance Monitoring Team to coordinate security operations across the region.
- Deployment of aerial surveillance technology to monitor and track terrorist movements.
- Enhanced intelligence-sharing between state security advisers, local security networks, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Security Agencies Strengthen Partnerships
In response to growing concerns, the Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ondo State Security Network, known as Amotekun. During a visit to Amotekun’s headquarters in Akure, Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi emphasized the importance of intelligence-sharing, stating that Amotekun operatives have played a crucial role in combating crime, particularly kidnappings.
“We want the already established synergy to continue and evolve to the next level. Cooperation between the army and Amotekun will remain critical in securing the state,” Ifeanyi said.
Additionally, DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi urged communities to remain vigilant and take an active role in defending themselves against security threats. Citing successful resistance efforts in parts of Bauchi State, he stressed that local communities must serve as the first line of defense against insurgents.
Governors Commend Tinubu, Move to Curb Food Inflation
The South-West Governors’ Forum also commended President Bola Tinubu for what it described as his administration’s strides in stabilizing the economy, ensuring petroleum supply, and controlling exchange rate volatility.
Addressing the region’s rising food prices, the governors agreed to:
- Establish a State Food Inflation Joint Monitoring Team to curb price manipulation by middlemen.
- Set up Aggregation Centers/Food Hubs to ensure price stability and improve food distribution.
Additionally, the forum applauded the establishment of the South-West Development Commission and confirmed that its headquarters would be situated at Cocoa House, Ibadan.
The latest meeting builds on resolutions from the forum’s last gathering in June 2024, where regional security and economic development were identified as top priorities.
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