Security agencies parade in Akure for “show of force” against rising insecurity

By Boye Oyeyemi

Various security agencies in Ondo State carried out a show of force in Akure on Monday, following rising security concerns across parts of the state.

The operation involved personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services and the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps.

Leading the exercise were the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, the Amotekun Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, and the Commanding Officer of the 323 Artillery Brigade.

Speaking with newsmen, the security chiefs said the operation was aimed at demonstrating the readiness of security agencies to tackle criminal activities and reassure residents of their safety.

Adeleye noted that the state would not provide a safe haven for criminals and that security personnel would not only patrol major towns but would also extend their operations into forest areas across the state.

He added that the exercise would include bush combing and surveillance of remote locations to prevent kidnappings and other crimes.

In the same vein, the police commissioner explained that the operation was part of a joint effort to strengthen security presence, particularly in areas where isolated incidents had recently been recorded, while also ensuring safety ahead of the forthcoming Sallah celebration.