North West bandits fleeing to Oyo, Makinde cries out

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Monday, raised the alarm that bandits fleeing military onslaught in the North-West are coming down to Oyo for refuge.

Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers held at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Makinde, however, assured residents of his government’s determined effort to smoke out the bandits and eliminate them.

“The year 2024 was challenging, particularly in terms of safety and security,” Makinde said. “We had incidents of fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. However, in 2025, we will redouble our efforts to address these issues.”

Makinde noted that the ongoing military operations in the North-West, including aerial bombardments of bandit hideouts, had forced many criminals to seek refuge in other states, including Oyo.

“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them,” he vowed.

Reflecting on personal experiences, Makinde recalled a recent encounter: “During my birthday retreat in Fashola, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”

He commended security operatives in the state for their dedication and called on traditional rulers and residents to report any suspicious activity.

“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately. For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe,” Makinde declared.

Addressing the tragic stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun, which claimed the lives of 35 children in December, Makinde promised that those responsible would face justice.