In a bid to maintain peace and security in Kishi, Oke-Ogun, the Oyo State Government has reassured residents of the area of its commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining and other criminal activities.
During a closed-door meeting at the state secretariat, Executive Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Sunday Odukoya, affirmed the government’s proactive stance in curbing the situation.
He reported the arrest of perpetrators and the closure of the illegal Sooro market in Kishi as part of the measures already taken.
Emphasizing zero tolerance for lawlessness, Odukoya cautioned residents against complicity with offenders, stressing that anyone found culpable would face legal consequences.
CP Odukoya said “we just had an intensive meeting on security over the illegal mining happening in Oke-ogun especially in Sooro in Irepo Local Government area of the state.
“The government has taken it’s position which means that everybody has to stand up to their responsibility to ensure adequate peace in the region.
“The Kabiesi, Iba of Kishi, Oba Mashoud Lawal has promised to make sure the area is free of hoodlums and that all the criminalities within his area will definitely come to an end.
He added that the state government will not relent in ensuring that the area remains peaceful and that the market remains closed until further directive is given by the state governor, ‘Seyi Makinde.
Col. Oladipo Ajibola (Rtd), the Director-General of the State Joint Security Task Force, corroborated the collaborative efforts between traditional leaders and security forces, leading to the restoration of peace in the area.
He disclosed that the arrest of 32 illegal miners, including 2 Chinese nationals, at the Kishi-Sooro Market.
Furthermore, Pharm. Bioku Abdulrahman, representing the Kishi traditional leader, expressed gratitude to the state government for its proactive security measures and assured continued support in tackling security challenges in the geopolitical zone.