The Oluyole Local Government has held a strategic and expanded Security Council meeting as part of its monthly activity and response to reports of a bandit attack at the National Park in Oriire Local Government Area.
The meeting, held on Thursday at the Oluyole Local Government Secretariat, Idi-Ayunre, brought together traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders and local government officials to review the situation and agree on proactive measures to safeguard communities within Oluyole.
Speaking at the meeting, the Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem, said the council would not wait for an attack before acting proactively.
According to him, the responsibility of local governments is to support the wider security architecture being driven by Governor Seyi Makinde.
“We cannot wait for an incident to occur before taking bold action. Our role is to complement the efforts of Governor Seyi Makinde by securing our local government against any form of intruders, and we are committed to doing everything possible to secure the lives of our people in Oluyole,” he said.
In their separate remarks, heads of security agencies in the LG raised concerns about the role of land transactions in worsening security challenges.
They noted that some traditional rulers, by selling land to unknown individuals, unknowingly create openings for criminal elements.
They however, urged traditional institutions to exercise greater caution and responsibility.
The head of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Oluyole, SP Folarin Toyin, commended traditional rulers who promptly respond to security alerts and cooperate with agencies when called upon.
However, she cautioned against attempts by some community leaders to shield offenders.
She said covering up wrongdoing in the name of protecting a community was not encouraging, especially when investigations later confirm such offences.
Traditional rulers present at the meeting included the Alayunre of Idi-Ayunre, HRM Oba Muritala Olumini, and the Onilatunde of Latunde, HRM Oba Yekinni Olatunde.
Others in attendance were the Vice Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Hon. Niyi Akorede; the Baale Olounde IGE and Head of all Baales in Ibadan, Baale Folounsho Ige; the Head of Hunters in Ibadan, Mr Temitope Orowunmi.
Also present were the Leader of the Legislative House, Hon. Taofeek Azeez; the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs Oyewale Mosunmola; and the Director of Administration and General Services, Mr Akinade Abayomi.
Others present were councillors, supervisory councillors, special assistants to the local government, other Baales, hunters and representatives of various security agencies.