Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has directed the establishment of an additional military formation in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, as part of efforts to reinforce security in the border community and prevent future security threats.
The Governor also ordered the accelerated completion of the divisional police station currently under construction in the town, describing the facility as vital to strengthening the area’s security framework.
Oyebanji gave the directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo, led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, during a thank-you visit to the Government House. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that no community would be left vulnerable to criminal activities.
Acknowledging that Eda Oniyo had witnessed limited development over the years due to a prolonged legal dispute over the location of the local government headquarters, the Governor pledged to transform the community into a befitting administrative centre.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the creation of state police, describing the proposal as a significant step towards tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
The Governor disclosed that security personnel, including soldiers, police officers and other agencies, already conduct regular patrols in the border community to prevent criminals from neighbouring states from infiltrating Ekiti.
Addressing the gathering, Oyebanji said his administration remained committed to the safety of residents and called for continued cooperation with security agencies. He instructed that the police station project be completed without delay and directed the immediate establishment of a military base in Eda Oniyo, pledging that the state government would provide the necessary funding.
Earlier, President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr Rufus Ojo, who spoke on behalf of the traditional ruler, thanked the Governor for his prompt intervention during the community’s recent security challenges. He particularly commended the government’s response in securing the release of kidnapped victims and ensuring they received appropriate medical attention.
Dr Ojo also appealed to the state government to develop the community’s vast agricultural land, arguing that increased farming activities would improve security while creating economic opportunities and enhancing residents’ livelihoods.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser on Security, retired Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana, Special Adviser on Media Yinka Oyebode, members of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union and relatives of recently rescued kidnapping victims.
