Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has raised concerns over an alarming influx of bandits into the state, warning residents and traditional rulers to remain vigilant against suspicious movements.
Speaking during the 2025 annual inter-faith service for government workers at Agodi, Ibadan, the governor revealed that fleeing bandits from Nigeria’s troubled Northwestern region are relocating to Oyo State due to sustained military pressure in their home territories.
Makinde recounted a personal security scare, saying, “During my birthday retreat, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”
Bandits Flee Northwest Onslaught
The governor explained that the ongoing military campaigns in the Northwest, aimed at rooting out banditry and insurgency, have forced criminal elements to seek refuge elsewhere, with Oyo emerging as a potential safe haven.
“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the Northwest are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them,” Makinde said, underscoring his administration’s resolve to curb insecurity.
This development, according to security analysts, reflects a troubling trend where successful crackdowns in one region inadvertently displace criminals to other areas, creating a ripple effect of insecurity across the country.
Makinde’s Security Promise
Vowing to protect every corner of Oyo State, Makinde assured residents of intensified efforts to combat the rising threats. “The year 2024 was challenging, particularly in terms of safety and security,” he noted.
“We had incidents of fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. However, in 2025, we will redouble our efforts to address these issues. For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe.”
He called on residents, especially traditional rulers, to act as the first line of defense by reporting suspicious activities promptly. “To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately,” he urged.
Rising Insecurity Across Nigeria
The governor’s remarks spotlight the broader insecurity plaguing Nigeria. Over the years, the Northern regions have borne the brunt of banditry and terrorism, with devastating consequences including deaths, kidnappings, and the destruction of communities.
According to recent reports, banditry has displaced thousands and crippled local economies in states like Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto. While military operations have achieved significant successes, they have also led to the migration of criminal elements to relatively peaceful states in the South, such as Oyo.
Makinde’s revelation aligns with security experts’ warnings about the need for inter-state collaboration to address the spillover effects of insecurity.
Local Reactions and Measures
Residents in Ibadan, the state capital, have expressed mixed feelings about the governor’s revelations. While some commend Makinde for his proactive stance, others worry about the potential for increased attacks.
Mrs. Yetunde Akande, a trader in Agodi, said, “It is scary to hear that bandits were so close to our governor during his retreat. If they can get that close to him, what about ordinary citizens?”
However, Mr. Kolade Akinola, a security expert based in Ibadan, praised Makinde’s transparency. “This is a wake-up call for everyone in Oyo State. The governor has shown he is serious about tackling this issue, but he needs the cooperation of traditional leaders, community vigilantes, and law enforcement,” he said.
To curb the threat, the Oyo State Government is reportedly ramping up security measures, including deploying more operatives to border communities and enhancing intelligence-sharing networks.
The Need for Broader Solutions
As Oyo grapples with this challenge, stakeholders have called for a coordinated national approach to insecurity. The Nigerian military and police are overstretched, and analysts argue that state governments must explore alternative solutions, such as regional security outfits and community policing initiatives.
Governor Makinde has previously championed the establishment of Amotekun, a regional security network in the Southwest, to complement federal security agencies. Critics, however, argue that such outfits require better funding, training, and equipment to operate effectively.
Makinde’s Call to Action
Makinde’s alarm is not just a warning but also a call to action for residents of Oyo State. “Security is a collective responsibility. While the government will do everything possible to secure the state, we need residents to play their part by staying alert and reporting any suspicious activities promptly,” he reiterated.
The governor’s assurances reflect a determination to ensure that Oyo does not become a haven for criminal elements. Whether his administration’s measures will be enough to address the evolving security challenges remains to be seen.
For now, the governor’s message is clear: “We will smoke out these bandits and deal with them decisively. Oyo will remain a safe place for its people, not for criminals.”
