Governor Adeleke Praises Military Contributions to National Defence, Identifies Four Security Challenges for Actions

Governor Adeleke Praises Military Contributions to National Defence, Identifies Four Security Challenges for Actions

Governor Ademola Adeleke has eulogised the Nigerian military for its immeasurable contributions to national defence and praised the Nigerian army for several successes in the ongoing war against insurgency and banditry.

The governor made the assertions today while hosting the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Waidi Shaibu on a courtesy visit at the Government House and in his address at the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruits of the Nigerian Army attended by the Army Chief and other top army commanders.

Accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, the governor said Nigeria’s survival as a united entity is a function of the huge sacrifices and patriotism of the men and women of the armed forces, noting “we appreciate your patriotism and commitment to the security and safety of our dear nation.

“The Nigerian Army has continued to distinguish itself in the defence of our nation against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats. I sincerely commend your courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of our nation. Your contributions, alongside those of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, remain indispensable to Nigeria’s peace, stability and national survival.

“While Osun State has remained one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, recent developments have posed serious security concerns which deserve urgent attention. Sadly, our enviable record of peaceful coexistence is being threatened by orchestrated political violence that is alien to our culture and traditions. We have witnessed targeted attacks and killings of members of the Accord Party allegedly perpetrated by armed political thugs associated with the opposition APC.

“Just last Thursday, I received a delegation from the Inspector General of Police led by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South West. The delegation conveyed the Inspector General’s directive for strict enforcement of law and order to end political violence in Osun State. We look forward to seeing outcomes that will restore public confidence.

“Permit me to respectfully draw your attention to three emerging security threats confronting our State: The first is the increasing influx and proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition into Osun State. This poses a grave threat to public safety and has the potential to escalate criminal activities if left unchecked.

“Secondly, credible intelligence available to our Government indicates the influx of suspected bandits into parts of Osun East Senatorial District under the guise of mining activities. This disturbing development raises serious security concerns that require proactive military attention before they evolve into a more dangerous challenge.

“Thirdly, Osun State shares boundaries with both Oyo and Kwara States where kidnapping has become a major security challenge. The activities of kidnappers in these neighbouring states are gradually spilling into some of our border communities, making it imperative for us to strengthen security” the governor, represented at the Passing Out Parade by the state’s Deputy governor, noted.

Governor Adeleke then requested that the Nigerian Army considers the establishment of military checkpoints along critical entry and exit routes into Osun State namely Ila – Ikirun Road; Ikirun – Kwara Border Road; Gbongan – Osogbo Road; Iwo – Osogbo Road; Ijebu-Jesa – Ekiti Road; Ife – Sekona Road; Ogbomoso – Ejigbo Road; and Ilesa – Osogbo Road.

In his address, the Chief of Army Staff commended the partnership between the state and the Army and assured the governor of further close relationship in the best interest of the state and service personnel operating in the state of the living spring.

The Army Chief reiterated the determination of the army to continue to play a frontal role in the ongoing operations against bandits and insurgents, assuring that the training depots are properly integrated to ensure Army recruits are properly equipped and trained.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.