Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed alarm regarding the security risks faced by the state’s school system and rural farm communities. In response to these threats, the governor has called for a meeting of the State Security Council and has revealed plans for significant security reforms.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke highlighted that intelligence reports have indicated a deliberate mobilisation of criminal elements in the rural areas of the state. He emphasized the alarming nature of these reports and the serious concerns they raise for the wellbeing of the people of Osun.

The governor expressed worry over reports that the individuals behind these plots were targeting farming activities by carrying out kidnappings and attacks on rural farm settlements. Schools have also been targeted with abductions and attacks, posing a threat to the implementation of the safe school initiative and the state’s infrastructure plan.

Governor Adeleke stated that a meeting of the State Security Council has been summoned, and preliminary directives have been issued to school authorities to enhance the safety of pupils and students. Measures such as reviewing safety protocols in Osun schools in line with the safe school initiative and clearing overgrown school environments have been ordered.

The governor also directed the Food Security Committee to submit an interim report to address farm security concerns and protect farmers as the rainy season begins. Practical and implementable measures, including closer integration and mobilisation of local hunters and forest rangers, are expected to be included in the report.

Furthermore, Governor Adeleke announced plans for extensive reforms of the Amotekun security force, expressing concern over internal rivalry, opposition penetration, and external intervention that have hindered the corps’ operations. The aim is to reorganise Amotekun to make it a highly efficient force that complements the efforts of the police and other security agencies.

Governor Adeleke assured the public that his administration has taken preemptive steps to secure schools and farming communities in Osun. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony and urged the public to report any unusual movements or activities to the security agencies.

“I am on top of the situation,” Governor Adeleke stated. “We are determined to secure our schools, farms, and society. We will not allow any attempts to disrupt the peace and progress of our state.”