Terror Threats: Osun Govt Approves Joint Security Task Force, Assures Residents of Safety
By Bukola ELUFADEJIN
Following recent security alerts and fears of possible terrorist attacks in the South-West, the Osun State Government has approved the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force (JTF) to strengthen security response across the state.
The government also reassured residents that the state remains safe and secured, urging them to go about their lawful duties without panic.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Hon. Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi.
According to the statement, the decision to set up the JTF was adopted at the State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Ademola Adeleke and presided over by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi.
The meeting, which lasted several hours, had in attendance the new Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Zungura, alongside other Service Commanders, the Attorney General of the State, Hon. Wole Jimi-Bada, the Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Mr. Samuel Ojo.
While declaring open the meeting, the Deputy Governor conveyed the best wishes of Governor Adeleke to the service commanders and lauded their steadfastness during recent security challenges, tasking them not to relent in the face of fresh threats.
The state government also declared its readiness to provide all necessary logistics that will strengthen the protection of lives and property of the people throughout Osun State to ensure smooth take-off of the JTF.
The Council further allayed the fears of residents on their security and protection, noting that Osun remains safe.
It, however, tasked residents to be extra vigilant, particularly in churches, mosques, schools and other public places, urging stakeholders to put extra security measures around their premises.
While assuring the public of their safety, the Council requested timely intelligence sharing by members of the public to security agencies to forestall attacks by suspected terrorists and bandits.
The Nigeria Police, in conjunction with other security agencies, were also directed to be on a 24-hour red alert to curtail the threats of the bandits and terrorists.
At the meeting, an agreement was also reached between the Ministry of Justice, the Police, the DSS and other agencies to collaborate to ensure that all suspects are properly investigated and prosecuted accordingly without delay.
The meeting ended with a commendation of the new Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Zungura, for instituting policing reforms since his assumption of office and for attending the security meeting in person.
