Growing incidents of abductions and violent attacks in parts of the South-West have prompted the Ekiti State Government to reinforce security around its borders in a bid to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the state.
While neighbouring states, including Kwara, Kogi and Ondo, have recorded a series of security breaches in recent months, authorities in Ekiti say they are adopting proactive measures to preserve the state's relative calm.
The renewed security efforts come amid concerns over attacks in communities located near the state's boundaries, including the abduction of worshippers during a church programme in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area.
Gunmen had reportedly invaded a Christ Apostolic Church gathering in the community in April, killing a cleric and whisking away several worshippers into the forest.
Although weeks have passed since the incident, security agencies say efforts to rescue those still in captivity remain ongoing.
Speaking on the state's security strategy, the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, said a multi-agency operation had been intensified to prevent criminal groups from gaining a foothold in any part of Ekiti.
According to him, personnel drawn from the police, military, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps and local vigilante groups have continued extensive patrols and forest operations across vulnerable locations.
Falade disclosed that the first phase of the operation succeeded in disrupting the activities of suspected kidnappers and armed gangs operating around the state's borders.
He said Governor Biodun Oyebanji subsequently approved a fresh phase of the exercise to consolidate the gains already achieved and further reassure residents.
The police commissioner explained that security operatives were focusing on intelligence gathering, visibility policing and raids on identified criminal hideouts to ensure criminals were denied access to communities within the state.
Also commenting on the security situation, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, retired Brigadier-General Ebenezer Ogundana, expressed confidence that the abducted church members would regain their freedom.
He said security agencies in Ekiti and neighbouring Kwara State were working closely through coordinated intelligence and tactical operations to secure the release of the victims without endangering their lives.
Ogundana stated that the government remained cautious in handling the matter to ensure a successful outcome.
According to him, isolated incidents recorded in some border communities should not overshadow the broader security reality in the state.
He maintained that Ekiti continues to rank among the safest states in the South-West due to sustained investment in security and collaboration among stakeholders.
The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said the administration had strengthened surveillance mechanisms across entry points into the state while supporting security agencies with the resources required to perform effectively.
He urged residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements and unfamiliar persons in their communities.
Olatunbosun noted that public participation remained critical in the fight against crime, stressing that security agencies depend on credible information from citizens to respond effectively to threats.
The commissioner also highlighted the government's Safe School initiative, describing it as part of broader efforts to secure educational institutions and protect pupils and students across the state.
As part of the programme, security assessments are being conducted in schools, especially boarding institutions and facilities situated in remote areas.
Ogundana disclosed that additional security guidelines had been introduced for religious activities, particularly programmes extending into late-night hours.
He said organisers were expected to take necessary precautions and work with security agencies to guarantee the safety of participants.
The security adviser further revealed that the state had sustained its forest-clearing operations designed to deny criminals access to hideouts within forest reserves and remote settlements.
He explained that the operation involves collaboration among conventional security agencies and local security outfits, including hunters, vigilantes, Agro Marshals and community-based groups with knowledge of the terrain.
Ahead of the June 20 governorship election, Ogundana said authorities were scaling up security operations and intelligence gathering to ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the poll.
He emphasised that the fight against crime required collective action, urging residents, traditional rulers, farmers and community leaders to continue supporting security agencies with useful information.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), called for stronger community involvement in efforts to tackle terrorism and violent extremism.
He stressed the importance of lawful and intelligence-driven approaches, warning against actions capable of undermining public confidence in security institutions.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji has also reassured residents that his administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Following a security meeting with military authorities, the governor reiterated that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate freely in Ekiti.
He urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified reports capable of creating panic, assuring them that security agencies were fully prepared to deal with emerging threats.
Oyebanji added that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support required to sustain peace and strengthen security across all parts of the state.
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