Southwest govs strategise against influx of bandits, ISWAP fighters

• Southwest governors are intensifying security efforts in response to the influx of bandits and ISWAP fighters into the region's forests
• Oyo and Ogun state leaders are coordinating with security agencies to address the growing security threats, while traditional rulers offer support
• Osun State sees successful arrests of ISWAP members, while Amotekun Corps and local police step up patrols to combat the infiltration of criminals

The governors of the Southwestern states in Nigeria are intensifying security efforts in response to the growing concern over the influx of bandits and fighters from the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) into the region’s forests. 

The escalation comes as these groups flee military operations in the North-West, seeking refuge in states like Oyo, Ogun, and Osun.

Last week, Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde revealed that bandits escaping military pressure from the North-West have been migrating into his state. 

Addressing the issue during a security briefing at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers in Ibadan, Makinde vowed to tackle the situation head-on, stating, “We will find and deal with them.”

In a similar move, the Ogun State government confirmed that it had reached out to relevant security agencies, including the military and police, to combat the threat. 

Meanwhile, in Osun State, the Department of State Services (DSS) recently apprehended 10 suspected ISWAP members in Ilesa. The suspects were detained after a Federal High Court in Abuja granted an order for their 60-day detention.

The Oodua People's Congress (OPC) also voiced concerns, urging all Southwest governors to treat the building of insurgent camps in Yoruba land forests as a security emergency. 

The OPC offered its support to security agencies in dealing with this growing menace, warning that foreign Fulani terrorists have targeted the South after their conquest of the North.

Governors collaborate on security solutions

Lagos State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who chairs the Southwest Governors' Forum, emphasised ongoing consultations with his counterparts in the region. Sanwo-Olu's media aide, Gboyega Akosile, reassured the public that the governor was receiving daily intelligence reports on the security situation and was committed to addressing the security concerns of the region. 

Akosile also noted that while there was no concrete evidence of bandits in the southwest, the region must remain vigilant.

Oyo State has also reassured residents of its commitment to ensuring their safety. Fatai Owoseni, Special Adviser on Security to the governor, emphasised that local governments and traditional rulers are being involved in grassroots security efforts. The state's security council is set to hold expanded meetings with local leaders to ensure coordinated action against criminal elements.

In Osun, the state government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, has shown strong support for security agencies. 

Special Adviser on Security Samuel Ojo reported that the state’s proactive approach helped in the swift arrest of ISWAP members attempting to set up operations. He also confirmed the interception and deportation of 84 illegal migrants, though their countries of origin remain undisclosed.

Traditional rulers call for action

Traditional rulers in the southwest have joined the call for decisive action, expressing deep concern over the reported influx of bandits and terrorists into their territories. 

Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, stressed the importance of vigilance and community engagement in ensuring security, particularly in border areas. 

Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Akarigbo of Remoland, echoed these sentiments, urging community leaders to take proactive measures to safeguard their domains.

Other monarchs, including the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, also pledged their support to government efforts, emphasising the need for modern technology and intelligence-sharing to root out criminal elements. 

The Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, called on governments in the region to take swift action to prevent the situation from escalating.

Amotekun corps and police take charge

The Amotekun Corps, a regional security outfit, continues to receive support from state governments. In Osun, Corps Commander Adekunle Omoyele reported that the corps had been well-equipped, with new motorcycles provided to enhance mobility. 

In Ekiti, newly-appointed Commissioner of Police Joseph Eribo assured residents that border areas were being closely monitored to prevent the infiltration of criminals.

Eribo also praised the state's existing security measures, including the deployment of agro rangers and marshals, and promised to intensify efforts to combat crime. "We will continue to dominate our environment and ensure that citizens can sleep with both eyes closed," he said.

As the Southwest region grapples with the rising threat of terrorism and banditry, coordination between state governments, security agencies, traditional rulers, and local communities appears to be key to tackling the crisis. 

While the region remains on high alert, the steps being taken to strengthen security are a clear indication that the Southwest is united in its resolve to protect its people from criminal threats.

Governor Makinde vows action against bandits relocating to Oyo from northwest

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has raised concerns over the relocation of bandits from the Northwest to Oyo, citing intensified military operations as the reason for their movement. 

Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers held at the Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, the governor assured residents of his administration's commitment to eliminating the criminal elements.