Osun govt approves joint security task force over terror threats

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Osun State Government has approved the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force (JTF) to strengthen the security response to threats to lives and property in the state.

The government also pledged to provide the necessary logistics to ensure the effective take-off of the task force and enhance the protection of residents across the state.

The decision was reached at the State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Ademola Adeleke and presided over by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi. The council agreed that the Ministry of Justice, police, DSS and other relevant security agencies should collaborate to ensure that suspects are properly investigated and prosecuted without delay.

Adewusi, who conveyed the governor’s best wishes to security commanders and commended them for their efforts during recent security challenges, urged them not to relent in the face of fresh threats.

The deputy governor stated that the Adeleke-led government remained committed to further empowering security agencies to protect the state, while calling on traditional rulers to sustain their local security oversight.

The council, after several hours of deliberation, allayed residents’ fears over their security and protection, noting that Osun State remained safe and secure.

It also urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in churches, mosques and schools, and to promptly share relevant intelligence with security agencies to help prevent attacks by suspected terrorists and bandits.

The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, was directed to remain on 24-hour red alert in response to the reported threats.