Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has vowed that his administration will decisively root out kidnappers and their collaborators, warning that sponsors and godfathers behind criminal activities in the state will face the full weight of the law.
The governor gave the warning on Tuesday during a security meeting with leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and other stakeholders at the Government House, where the rising wave of kidnapping in parts of the state was discussed.
Aiyedatiwa expressed concern over the resurgence of abduction for ransom, revealing that some communities had recorded multiple kidnapping incidents in recent weeks, a development he described as alarming.
According to him, kidnapping operations are often carried out by organised criminal networks comprising both locals and non-indigenes who collaborate by supplying information about victims and hiding abducted persons in forests.
The governor disclosed that security agencies had arrested about 90 suspects linked to kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, adding that some of those apprehended were already making confessional statements.
He warned that anyone found to be sponsoring or aiding criminal activities would not be spared, irrespective of their social or political status.
“No sponsor, godfather or collaborator will be shielded. Anyone traced to these crimes will be treated as a criminal,” the governor declared.
Aiyedatiwa also called on traditional rulers, community leaders and parents to caution young people against engaging in criminal activities.
The governor referenced the recent protest by residents of Ilu-Abo over kidnapping incidents, noting that discussions had earlier been held with community representatives on steps to strengthen security in the area.
While acknowledging the frustration of residents, he cautioned against protests that could be hijacked by hoodlums and lead to further breakdown of law and order.
The governor further revealed that intelligence reports indicated that some criminal elements displaced by security operations in neighbouring states such as Kwara State and Kogi State might be attempting to infiltrate Ondo State.
According to him, some suspects reportedly move under the cover of cattle herding routes, using cattle as shields while moving at night.
He therefore urged leaders of the herders’ association to assist security agencies with credible intelligence that would help identify criminals hiding among legitimate cattle rearers.
Aiyedatiwa reiterated that while legitimate cattle rearing and trading remain lawful economic activities, anyone found using the system as cover for criminal operations would face decisive action.
The governor added that the state government was considering proposals from Fulani leaders to establish vigilante groups within their communities to assist security agencies, noting that such arrangements would require proper approval and supervision.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to strengthen security operations and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that the state remains safe for all law-abiding citizens.
