Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called for the establishment of a military Forward Operation Base in the eastern part of the state to help curb criminal activities in that area.
Abiodun made the call on Wednesday when he received the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Farooq Mijinyawa, who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The governor noted that the high volume of commercial activities in the eastern part of the state also brings with it criminal activities, hence the need to beef up security in the region.
He stated that a military presence was needed in the area to deter criminals who migrate from neighbouring states to Ogun to cause havoc.
He said: “I think one of the things you can do to help us sustain the peace that we have been enjoying in Ogun State is to consider putting a base, perhaps a Forward Operation Base, in the eastern part of the state.
“Right now, we are at the centre where we have the state capital. We have a presence in Ogun West, but I think because of the level of commercial activities that are beginning to evolve in the eastern flank of the state, particularly with our airport there, we are going to see an exponential increase in business activities.
“Now and then, there are issues that test our resolve to maintain peace and order, and as you know, as a law enforcement expert, it is the speed with which you respond to these issues that determines how quickly you neutralise them.
“The Brigade Commander has often had to respond swiftly through OP-MESA to places like Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode when we have issues.
“In fact, at times, we have had to deploy personnel to stay there, as Sagamu-Ogijo is where these criminals are constantly travelling between Ikorodu, Ogijo, and Sagamu, and at times have issues with cultists, which sometimes escalate. We cannot have such news emanating from Ogun, which is the industrial hub of the nation.
“We cannot have news filtering out of the state that will make potential investors uncomfortable, and you know that part of dealing with criminals is to be proactive by discouraging them. When they see your presence, they will want to go to places where they can easily perpetrate their crimes.
“I believe we can have personnel from the Nigerian Army stationed there permanently, and we, as a state, will provide whatever is needed to facilitate this so that it can happen immediately. If we have something around the Remo axis, it will make it easier for the Army to deploy within minutes.”
The governor emphasised that security is vital for economic activities, adding that his administration could not implement its vision in a chaotic environment, even as he lauded the Army for playing a critical role in the state’s security apparatus.
He stated that although Ogun is one of the most peaceful states in the country, its geographical location has put pressure on the government to provide not only infrastructure but also security for the people at all times.
Abiodun described the new General Officer as a round peg in a round hole, stating that his education, training, and exposure have adequately prepared him for the top military position.
While calling for more cooperation and support for his administration to maintain peace and order, the governor promised to assist the Army and other security agencies in the state to optimally perform their constitutional duties.
Speaking earlier, General Mijinyawa expressed appreciation to the governor for his constant support of the Army, especially in the welfare of the wives of fallen heroes, annual Army celebrations, and necessary logistics.
“I have ordered my officers and men to continue the good work they are doing in the state to ensure that the peace we have continues to thrive. Let me assure you that we will step up our efforts to ensure improved security in the state,” General Mijinyawa concluded.
