Following recent communal volatility and reports of arson in the Southern Senatorial District of Ondo State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has led a high-powered security team on an extensive on-the-spot assessment of the region.
The tour, which took place on Friday, April 10, 2026, was mandated by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as part of a national strategy to overhaul proactive security architectures.
Tension in Agadagba
The CP’s visit centered heavily on the Ese-Odo Local Government Area, particularly the Agadagba axis, where long-standing boundary disputes between the Kuribo and Arogbo communities recently boiled over into violence.
During a town hall meeting in Igbekebo, attended by the LGA Chairman, Hon. Chief Caleb Molos, and various traditional rulers, the Commissioner was briefed on the displacement of residents and the destruction of property resulting from the skirmishes.
”Sheath Your Swords”
Addressing the traditional rulers and stakeholders, CP Lawal took a firm but conciliatory stance, urging the warring factions to prioritize mediation over militancy.
”Violence only exacerbates communal challenges and undermines development,” the CP stated. “I urge all parties to sheath their swords and embrace peaceful dialogue as the only sustainable path to resolution.”
The Commissioner later visited the charred remains of buildings targeted in the arson attacks. He vowed that the Command would conduct a “transparent and diligent” investigation, promising that no individual involved in the destruction would escape the reach of the law.
Operational Changes
To prevent a reprisal or further escalation, CP Lawal ordered the following immediate actions:
- Tactical Reinforcement: Immediate deployment of additional personnel to Igbekebo, Agadagba, and surrounding border communities.
- Enhanced Visibility: Increased motorized patrols and the placement of operational assets to deter criminal elements.
- Community Intelligence: A new directive for local police divisions to work closer with community leaders for real-time information sharing.
Public Cooperation
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abayomi Jimoh, in a statement released Saturday, reassured the public that the Command remains resolute in protecting lives and property.
Residents are encouraged to remain calm and law-abiding. The Command has provided several hotlines and digital channels for citizens to report suspicious movements or provide credible leads regarding the recent unrest.
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