Governor Makinde vows action against bandits relocating to Oyo from northwest

• Governor Makinde revealed that fleeing bandits from the Northwest are seeking refuge in Oyo State 
• He shared a close encounter with bandits who camped less than two kilometres from his birthday retreat
• Makinde reiterated that bandits would have no foothold in Oyo State and assured residents of his administration’s relentless efforts to secure the region

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has raised concerns over the relocation of bandits from the Northwest to Oyo, citing intensified military operations as the reason for their movement. 

Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers held at the Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, the governor assured residents of his administration's commitment to eliminating the criminal elements.

Makinde noted that 2024 posed significant security challenges, including incidents of armed robbery, kidnappings, and fire outbreaks, but promised to strengthen efforts in 2025 to address these issues effectively.

Makinde explained that ongoing military offensives in the Northwest, including aerial bombardments, had forced many criminals to flee their strongholds and seek refuge in other states, including Oyo.

“During a security briefing this morning, I was informed that some bad elements from the Northwest are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. 

“But we will find them and deal with them,” he said.

Reflecting on a recent incident during his birthday retreat, the governor revealed that bandits had camped less than two kilometres from his location in Fashola, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Call to action for security

Makinde charged traditional rulers and residents with remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to security operatives.

“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of their domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately. For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not rest until every inch of this state is safe,” he vowed.

The governor also commended security agencies for their dedication and pledged to continue supporting their efforts to ensure the state’s safety.

Justice for stampede victims

Addressing the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, which claimed the lives of 35 children in December, Makinde assured that justice would be served.

“Some people have said similar incidents in Anambra and the FCT did not lead to prosecutions. My response is simple: Oyo State is not Anambra or the FCT. Justice must prevail here,” he stated.

He emphasised that while the judiciary might grant bail to suspects, the trial process must proceed without interference. 

“Even if other states ignore the rule of law, Oyo State will dare to be different,” he said.

Commitment to workers’ welfare

On workers’ welfare, the governor promised to conclude negotiations on the minimum wage and arrears for pensioners within the week.

“We’ve finalised the minimum wage and consequential adjustments for workers but are yet to conclude for pensioners. This will be resolved this week,” Makinde assured.

In her remarks, the state’s Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, commended the governor for his worker-friendly policies and urged civil servants to maintain their diligence.

Similarly, goodwill messages from the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin (represented by Deputy Speaker Abiodun Fadeyi), NLC Chairman Comrade Kayode Martins, and TUC Chairman Comrade Bosun Olabiyi lauded the governor's commitment to improving workers’ welfare and urged him to sustain the momentum.

Governor Makinde concluded by reaffirming his administration’s determination to ensure the safety and welfare of all residents of Oyo State.

Lakurawa terrorists no longer in Nigeria, Defence Minister Matawalle says

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, confirmed that the notorious terror group, Lakurawa, is no longer operating in Nigeria, stating that the militants have been successfully chased out of the country.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, Matawalle categorically dismissed claims made by the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara, Mohammed Shehu Dalijan, who had suggested that the Lakurawa group was responsible for a series of deadly explosive attacks in the state.