The Ogun State Government has finalized plans to enhance security around schools across the state as part of measures to protect students and educational institutions from emerging security threats. Governor Dapo Abiodun made this announcement on Wednesday at his Iperu residence while hosting the League of Imams and Alfas in celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.
Proactive Measures in Response to Regional Threats
Governor Abiodun stated that the initiative became necessary in response to recent security developments in neighboring states. He emphasized that his administration is determined to proactively safeguard schools and secure the future of children in Ogun State. The government will deploy a combination of formal security agencies and local security outfits, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters, and vigilante groups, to provide adequate protection for schools across the state.
“We have decided to engage the services of our security agencies, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters, and other vigilante groups, to provide security in our schools. We need to do this to protect the lives of our future generation,” the governor said.
Collaborative Security Architecture
Governor Abiodun added that the security architecture will involve collaboration among traditional rulers, religious leaders, and law enforcement agencies to ensure effective coordination and surveillance around schools. “We will mobilize the Amotekun Corps, the So-Safe Corps, and all vigilante groups for the protection of schools across the length and breadth of the state. We will also provide stipends to encourage and support this initiative, and implementation will commence immediately,” he stated.
The initiative is designed to prevent a recurrence of incidents experienced in some neighboring states. The governor noted that the safety of schoolchildren remains a top priority for his administration. He acknowledged the role of prayers in sustaining peace and stability but emphasized the need for practical measures to guarantee the security of students and educational institutions.
Direct Impact Committee and Community Support
Governor Abiodun also announced the inauguration of a “Direct Impact Committee” tasked with touring communities across the state to identify and address pressing needs of residents. The committee will facilitate the provision of transformers, boreholes, solar streetlights, and other essential amenities based on the peculiar needs of various communities.
The governor further revealed that the initiative will provide monthly financial support to 10 persons in each of the 5,043 polling units spread across the 236 wards in the state to cushion economic challenges at the grassroots. He assured traditional rulers and religious leaders of active participation in the selection process for beneficiaries, describing them as critical stakeholders closest to the people at the grassroots.
Commendation for Religious Leaders
Governor Abiodun commended religious leaders for their prayers, support, and commitment to peaceful coexistence, which he said have continued to enhance socio-economic development and stability in the state. “You have contributed immensely to the peace we currently enjoy in our state. Development cannot thrive in a chaotic environment. Please do not stop praying for us. We also need your continued support for our law enforcement agencies so that we can sustain the peace and progress we are witnessing today,” the governor said.
