Osun Governor Adeleke activates hunters, security forces to safeguard schools amid regional bandit threats

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has activated multiple layers of the state's security apparatus to protect schools and communities from rising bandit threats in the Southwest. In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, Adeleke disclosed that he has convened meetings with formal security commanders and informal groups including hunters, OPC, Agbekoya, Amotekun, and community-based security outfits. These consultations, he said, are part of a coordinated strategy to strengthen intelligence gathering and joint response mechanisms across the state.

Adeleke revealed that he personally engaged the Osun State Traditional Council of Obas through the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to leverage traditional intelligence networks in local security efforts. He described traditional rulers as "the eyes and ears of their domains" and affirmed that a meeting with all monarchs in the state will soon take place. The governor stressed that securing schools, communities, and citizens is "non-negotiable" and that deployments are ongoing across every level of the security architecture.

The mobilisation follows a spate of attacks in the Southwest, including an incident on May 15 in Oyo State where armed bandits attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Dozens of pupils and teachers were abducted, and a mathematics teacher was beheaded while in captivity. Adeleke urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, saying, "We are watching. We are working. And we will not relent. If you see something, say something."

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