Speaking during a high-level security meeting on Monday in Iperu Remo Ogun State, the Governor emphasized that all land in Ogun State belongs to the government, and no Kabiyesi or Baale has the authority to allocate land to non-indigenes without due process.
Abiodun stated that the government will no longer tolerate land-related irregularities that threaten peace and security, noting that the “law will be very swift” on anyone found culpable.
"We would hold any baale accountable for allocating land to strangers in Ogun. All land belongs to government. No Kabiyesi or Baale has the authority to allocate land to strangers.
"We will hold any Baale responsible for signing MOUs or allocating land to strangers and the law will be very swift".
The Governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strong leadership as the nation’s economy stabilizes, despite what he described as “false narratives being promoted in some quarters.”
He further congratulated the President and security agencies on the progress made in rescuing kidnap victims in the Niger/Kwara axis.
As the industrial capital and gateway between Nigeria’s commercial and other regions, Ogun State, according to the Governor, must remain proactive in securing its borders and communities.
“The best time to prepare for war is during peace,” he said, stressing that economic development cannot take place in an atmosphere of insecurity.
To strengthen internal security, Governor Abiodun rolled out several measures which includes:
“Mandatory Documentation of Foreign Nationals:All foreign nationals within the State must be properly documented in accordance with security protocols and immigration regulations.
“ZAGA Enclave:The ZAGA settlement is to be dismantled and taken over by the Government to prevent its continued use for unlawful activities.
“Sanctions for Landlords Harbouring Miscreants:Landlords and individuals found to be accommodating miscreants or criminal elements will be decisively dealt with in line with the law.
“Engagement with Non-Indigenes:
A strategic meeting will be convened with the non-indigene communities to strengthen mutual understanding and enhance security cooperation.
“FOB Establishment at ILARA (Yewa North):The establishment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) around Ilara, a key border community in Yewa North, will be prioritised to tighten border security.
“Control of Scavengers:Activities of scavengers across the State will be strictly regulated to curb criminal infiltration and illicit practices.
“Forest and Government Reserve Operations:Security agencies will intensify operations to flush out criminal hideouts within forests and government reserves.
“Illegal Mining:All illegal mining activities will be confronted decisively, with perpetrators apprehended and prosecuted.
“Ajebo non indigene Settlement:The Fsettlement in Ajebo is currently under investigation, and necessary actions will be taken upon the conclusion of the interrogation.
“Assurance of Peace and Security:Citizens are assured that the Government remains fully committed to maintaining peace, stability, and the security of lives and property".
The Governor reaffirmed that the government remains fully committed to ensuring peace and the protection of lives and property, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration to modernize the state’s security architecture.
He acknowledged and appreciated the contributions of local hunters to community security and promised continuous government support for law enforcement agencies.
Abiodun further urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security operatives.
“Security is a joint responsibility. We encourage the provide timely information to us to ensure promote prompt response by law enforcement “.
