Ondo government warns against police ‘commando-style’ raids, urges IGP intervention
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo State Government has expressed deep concern over what it described as “commando-style” operations by officers of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in parts of the state, warning that the development is heightening tension among residents already burdened by prevailing security challenges across the country.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the government said the manner in which the operations were being conducted had triggered panic and apprehension among law-abiding citizens, thereby undermining the peaceful atmosphere for which the state is known.
While acknowledging the constitutional mandate of security agencies to investigate and combat crime, the government stressed that such responsibilities must be carried out in line with established protocols and with due regard for public safety and confidence.
“The conduct of these operations has created unnecessary anxiety among residents and disrupted the calm environment that Ondo State has consistently maintained,” the statement noted.
Consequently, the government called on the Inspector-General of Police to take urgent steps to regulate the activities of specialised units operating within the state, ensuring strict adherence to professional standards and operational procedures.
It further emphasised the need for improved coordination, noting that where actionable intelligence exists, security agencies should engage appropriate state authorities through official channels to prevent avoidable tension among the populace.
The government reiterated that it does not oppose legitimate security operations aimed at protecting lives and property, but insisted that such actions must be carried out in a manner that inspires public confidence rather than fear.
Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of residents, the state government urged citizens to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.
The government therefore assured that it would sustain engagement with relevant security authorities to ensure that all operations within the state respect due process and preserve public peace.
