Ekiti Fortifies Borders Amidst Rising Kidnappings and Banditry

Ekiti State in Nigeria is bolstering its defenses against a surge in kidnappings and banditry affecting neighboring regions. While the state has largely remained peaceful, isolated incidents, including a disturbing attack on a church in Eda Oniyo where worshippers were abducted, have heightened security concerns.

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We carried out extensive bush-combing operations in the affected areas and succeeded in pushing back bandits and kidnappers who were attempting to gain control of communities along the borders with Kwara and Kogi states.

In response, security agencies, including the army, police, civil defense corps, Amotekun Corps, DSS, and local vigilantes, have launched an intensified bush-combing exercise. This operation aims to flush out criminal elements from border communities and prevent them from gaining a foothold in Ekiti.

The state's Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, described the rescue operation for the abducted worshippers as sensitive, with efforts ongoing for their safe release. He stated that the first phase of the bush-combing exercise yielded positive results, pushing back bandits and kidnappers attempting to control border areas with Kwara and Kogi states.

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Following an assessment of the first phase, Governor Biodun Oyebanji approved the continuation of the operation to reassure residents that Ekiti remains safe and secure despite security challenges in neighbouring Kwara, Kogi and Ondo states.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved the continuation of the operation to ensure residents feel secure. The objective is to allow citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear, with operations including clearance exercises, visibility policing, and raids on identified criminal hideouts, especially in border communities. The goal is to provide maximum protection for lives and property.

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The objective is to enable our people to go about their lawful activities without fear.