Ondo govt defends security restrictions, dismisses APC crisis claims
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo state government has defended recent security measures introduced across the state, assuring residents that the administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining ongoing development initiatives.
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 Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa had largely maintained peace in the state since assuming office, noting, however, that recent isolated kidnapping incidents prompted the government to strengthen security operations.
According to him, intelligence reports linked the incidents to criminal networks operating within some communities, necessitating proactive steps by the government to prevent further threats.
He explained that the state had introduced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. as part of efforts to curb criminal activities often carried out under the cover of night.
The commissioner added that all commercial motorcycle operators had been directed to register within two weeks to enable security agencies properly identify genuine operators and isolate criminal elements.
Ajanaku also disclosed that the government had moved to regulate the activities of truck pushers, popularly known as “boller,” in Akure metropolis following investigations that revealed that some individuals within the group were involved in leaking information that aided criminal operations.
He appealed to traditional rulers and community leaders to work closely with security agencies, stressing that effective security management required grassroots participation since criminal elements were often known within their localities.
To further strengthen the security architecture, Ajanaku revealed that about 500 additional personnel had been recruited into the Amotekun Corps.
He said the new operatives had been deployed across the 18 local government areas of the state, with some assigned to their respective communities to enhance intelligence gathering.
Beyond security, the commissioner highlighted several development initiatives being undertaken by the state government, including the construction of five kilometres of roads in each local government area.
He added that the government was also rehabilitating and constructing primary healthcare centres across the 203 wards in the state to improve access to basic health services.
Ajanaku further disclosed that Ondo State had continued to attract major investments aimed at transforming its economic landscape.
He cited the Memorandum of Understanding signed with Backbone Infrastructure Nigeria Limited for a ₦50 billion investment in the state.
The investment, he said, covers key projects such as the Araromi Seaport, where mapping of the site has already been completed, as well as a modular refinery and the Okeluse Cement Factory.
According to him, the projects form part of the administration’s strategy to shift the state from a largely civil service-driven economy to an industrial hub capable of attracting investors and generating employment opportunities.
On political developments, Ajanaku dismissed reports of a crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state following the party’s recent congress.
He described the exercise as a routine democratic process, adding that party leaders at ward, local government and state levels had already resolved all concerns arising from the congress.
The commissioner maintained that members of the party remained united and committed to supporting the administration.
He also noted that the party structure in the state remained firmly behind the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
Ajanaku further addressed speculation surrounding a possible second-term ambition of Governor Aiyedatiwa, clarifying that the governor had not instituted any legal action regarding his eligibility.
He explained that the court case was initiated by private individuals and that the governor’s response was limited to asserting the constitutional immunity attached to his office.
The commissioner also dismissed rumours of a political rift between the governor and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Ajanaku added that both leaders remain committed to working together in the interest of Ondo State and are focused on delivering good governance to the people.
