The Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Hon. Ayo Ajana, on Tuesday convened a security summit aimed at tackling rising security concerns, including reported cases of kidnapping in parts of the council area and neighbouring communities.
The event, themed "Managing Security and Security Challenges in Akoko South West Local Government," was held at the Oka Town Hall and drew traditional rulers, security agencies, retired security experts, academics, political office holders and community leaders to deliberate on practical measures to improve security.
Speaking at the summit, Ajana said insecurity had continued to affect farming, commercial activities, education and the socio-economic wellbeing of residents, stressing the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard lives and property.
He acknowledged ongoing security efforts by the Federal Government and the Ondo State Government, including the establishment of Forest Guards, the strengthening of the Amotekun Corps and advocacy for state police, but noted that government initiatives alone could not address the security challenges.
According to the council chairman, criminal elements often operate within communities, making intelligence gathering, vigilance and timely information sharing critical to preventing crime.
"Security is everyone's responsibility. We must complement the efforts of government and security agencies by remaining vigilant, sharing timely information and strengthening community-based security arrangements. The safety of our people depends on our collective resolve," Ajana said.
The summit featured presentations by retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Barrister Omojola; former Director of the Department of State Services, Emmanuel Owolabi; a lecturer in the Department of Informatics and Information, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Dr. Felix Aranuwa; and the Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee in Ondo State, Ambassador Ariyo.
The resource persons emphasised the need for stronger cooperation between residents and security agencies, improved intelligence sharing, community engagement, technological innovation and effective early warning systems to combat crime.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, commended Ajana for organising the summit, describing it as a proactive response to the security challenges confronting the area.
The monarch also praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for supporting security initiatives across the state, adding that traditional rulers in Akoko had intensified grassroots efforts and collaboration with security agencies to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Ajana, while appreciating Governor Aiyedatiwa for prioritising security under the EASE Agenda, also commended the summit's planning committee, led by High Chief Matthew Ofosola, for ensuring the successful organisation of the programme.
The summit ended with participants resolving to strengthen cooperation among government, traditional institutions, security agencies and local communities through sustained dialogue, intelligence sharing and active community participation to improve security across Akoko South West.
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