Aiyedatiwa Deploys Amotekun Rangers to Curb Banditry in Ondo Border Communities

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has prioritized security along the state’s volatile border regions, deploying Amotekun Rangers and patrol teams to Ose, Owo, and Akure North Local Government Areas (LGAs). Speaking on Wednesday, December 17, during the third day of his ongoing seven-day statewide working visit and ‘Thank-You’ tour, the governor assured residents that his administration would not tolerate banditry or other criminal incursions.

The initiative follows persistent reports of cross-border raids by suspected herder militias and armed robbers, which had disrupted farming and trade in these agrarian communities near Kogi and Edo states. Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the newly established Amotekun Rangers camp, coupled with round-the-clock patrols, has already yielded results. “Criminal activities have significantly reduced, allowing our farmers and traders to return to their legitimate businesses without fear,” he stated at a town hall in Ose.

Security analysts note that Amotekun, the state’s vigilante outfit formed in 2020 amid rising farmer-herder clashes, has evolved with specialized ranger units trained for rugged border terrains. Recent deployments, including over 50 operatives in these hotspots, align with Aiyedatiwa’s broader strategy since assuming office in February 2024, which has seen a 40% drop in reported border incidents per state security records.

“We will not leave you alone and allow something bad to happen to you,” the governor emphasized, underscoring high alert among all security agencies. This commitment has reportedly restored public confidence, fostering stronger ties between the government and grassroots communities.

Grassroots Governance and Infrastructure Promises

Beyond security, Aiyedatiwa’s tour—covering all 18 LGAs—aims to bring governance closer to the people, express gratitude for electoral support, and showcase projects. In Ose, he pledged immediate rehabilitation of dilapidated roads, a long-standing grievance exacerbated by heavy rainfall and neglect.

The governor attributed enhanced state capacities to federal reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. “Improved electricity supply, school shuttle buses, and other social interventions are direct outcomes of these reforms,” he said. For instance, solar-powered mini-grids are being rolled out in Akure North, while Owo benefits from upgraded health centers and youth empowerment schemes.

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Residents welcomed the assurances. “We’ve suffered enough from bandits; this ranger camp is a game-changer,” said Chief Ojo Adebayo, a farmer from Ose. The tour continues Thursday, with focus shifting to southern LGAs amid expectations for similar interventions.

Ondo State’s security gains come as neighboring states grapple with similar challenges, highlighting Aiyedatiwa’s proactive stance ahead of 2026 polls.