Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde yesterday released a security strategy to be adopted in fighting insecurity and other security challenges facing Ibarapa zone.
The strategies, according to the governor, were arrived at after a meeting with security stakeholders, including representatives from Igangan, Ibarapa land and Police Commissioner Ngozi Onadeko.
Makinde, who made the disclosure on his social media handle, said the strategies include deployment of additional operatives of the Amotekun Corps; continuous dialogue; documentation of foreigners, enforcement of existing laws and collaboration with federal security agencies, among others.
The governor said additional 200 members of the Oyo State Western Nigeria Security Network code-named Amotekun will be deployed in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun to stem the tide of kidnapping/banditry.
He expressed the willingness of the state to collaborate with federal security agencies posted to the state, while also enforcing the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019.
Makinde said the government would proceed with plans to document foreigners, especially those working in mines, noting that only foreigners who have legitimate interests in the state will remain within the territory.
He said: “We are aware that some farmers have been killed and/or lost their livelihoods to criminal trespass and damage by pastoralists. So, the State Executive Council is considering the possibility of compensation payments to families of victims or victims of this criminality, who can prove their claims.
“We have started the process of prosecuting suspects arrested for crimes in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun in connection with the ongoing tension in the area.
“Let me thank residents who complied with the directive to remain peaceful, and call on all residents to stay vigilant and always contact the security agencies empowered by law to deal with security issues. We remain resolute in our commitment to protect the lives and property of residents.”