Oyo State Governor Vows to Eliminate Fleeing Bandits as Military Heat Forces Migration

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared his commitment to ensuring the safety of his state by tackling bandits fleeing from the ongoing military operations in the Northwest. Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers in Agodi, Ibadan, the governor revealed that the military’s continued incursion in the Northwest had forced bandits to relocate to Oyo State, but promised that his government would swiftly deal with the criminals.

The governor acknowledged the security challenges faced in 2024, including armed robberies, kidnappings, and fire outbreaks. However, he reassured residents that in 2025, the state government would intensify its efforts to combat these threats and protect its citizens.

“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones,” Makinde said. “But we will find and deal with them. During my birthday retreat, bandits camped less than two kilometers from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”

Makinde further called on traditional rulers across the state to stay vigilant and report any suspicious movements in their areas to security operatives. He emphasized that ensuring the security of Oyo State was a top priority, assuring the public that the government would not rest until every part of the state was safe.

“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately. For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe,” the governor concluded.