The Ondo State Government has defended its recent security measures and ongoing development programmes, assuring residents of intensified efforts to protect lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, gave the assurance while speaking on Public Square, a live programme on Adaba 88.9FM in Akure.
Ajanaku said the administration of Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa had largely maintained peace since assuming office, noting that the few recent kidnapping incidents recorded in parts of the state were traced through intelligence to criminal networks operating within certain communities.
To address the situation, he said the government had introduced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. across the state.
According to him, all motorcycle operators have also been directed to register within two weeks to enable security agencies properly identify genuine operators and track criminal elements.
The commissioner added that the government had taken steps to regulate the activities of truck pushers, popularly known as “boller,” within Akure metropolis after investigations allegedly linked some members of the group to information leaks aiding criminal activities.
He urged traditional rulers and community leaders to collaborate closely with security agencies, stressing that effective security management requires grassroots participation.
Ajanaku explained that criminal elements are often known within their communities and could be more easily identified through local cooperation with security operatives.
The commissioner also disclosed that the state government had recruited about 500 additional personnel into the Amotekun Corps to strengthen community-based security operations across the state’s 18 local government areas.
He said some of the newly recruited operatives had already been deployed to their respective communities to enhance intelligence gathering and improve the state’s security architecture.
Speaking on development, Ajanaku highlighted ongoing infrastructure and social investment programmes being implemented by the administration.
He said the government was constructing five kilometres of roads in each local government area while also undertaking the rehabilitation and construction of primary healthcare centres across the state’s 203 wards.
The commissioner further pointed to major economic initiatives aimed at attracting investors and stimulating industrial growth.
He disclosed that Backbone Infrastructure Nigeria Limited had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the state government on a ₦50bn investment package targeted at key projects, including the proposed Araromi Seaport, a modular refinery and the Okeluse Cement Factory.
According to him, the projects are part of the government’s strategy to transform the state from a largely civil service-driven economy into an industrial hub capable of attracting investors and creating employment opportunities.
On the political front, Ajanaku dismissed reports of a crisis within the All Progressives Congress in the state following its recent congress.
He described the exercise as a routine democratic process, noting that party leaders at the ward, local government and state levels had resolved all concerns.
The commissioner added that members of the party remained united and committed to supporting the administration as well as the re-election bid of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
Ajanaku also addressed speculation over a possible second-term ambition of Governor Aiyedatiwa, clarifying that the governor did not institute any legal action regarding his eligibility.
According to him, the court case was initiated by private individuals, while the governor only responded by asserting the constitutional immunity attached to his office.
He further dismissed rumours of a political rift between the governor and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, insisting that both leaders remained united and were working together in the interest of Ondo State.
