Oyebanji orders military base in Ekiti border community amid security concerns

By Boye Oyeyemi

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has directed the establishment of an additional military base in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, to strengthen security and prevent fresh attacks in the border community.

The governor also ordered the speedy completion of the Divisional Police Station under construction in the town, saying the facility would improve security and enhance the protection of residents.

Oyebanji gave the directives on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from Eda Oniyo, led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, during a thank-you visit following the recent security incident in the community.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that no part of Ekiti State would be abandoned to criminal elements.

“I want a military base at Eda Oniyo. Whatever it is going to cost us, bring it to me and I will approve it. This government is here to protect and serve you, and we need your cooperation to do that effectively,” the governor said.

Oyebanji said his administration would also accelerate the development of Eda Oniyo, noting that the community had suffered years of slow growth due to the prolonged dispute over the headquarters of Ilejemeje Local Government.

He further praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the creation of state police, describing the initiative as a major step towards addressing the country’s security challenges, while adding that joint security patrols had been intensified in the area.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr. Rufus Ojo, commended the governor for his swift response to the security crisis and appealed for agricultural investments in the area, saying they would boost the local economy and strengthen security.