Following the recent waves of attacks by bandits in parts of Ekiti State, the state government has commenced an onslaught against gunmen and other criminal elements in forest and border communities across the state.

The operation, which is a joint effort by security agencies, including local operatives, is aimed at warding off bandits and restoring peace to communities, especially those bordering Kwara and Kogi states.

Tribune Online had reported recent cases of abduction and killings by bandits in parts of Ikole and Moba Local Government Areas of the state.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Tribune Online on Sunday, the Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Security Matters, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (retd), who confirmed the deployment, assured residents that the ongoing joint security operation targeting bandits in border communities is making steady progress.

The security aide disclosed that the operation, which commenced last week in forested areas in Oke Ako, Irele, and other border communities adjoining Kwara State, remains active and is already yielding positive results, particularly in reducing the pressure mounted by criminal elements along troubled corridors bordering neighbouring states.

He explained that the exercise is a coordinated effort involving the Nigerian Army, the Police, Civil Defence, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, as well as local vigilante groups and hunters, all working together to flush out bandits and restore lasting peace.

“It is an ongoing operation; it is still in progress. So far, so good. We are still on it, and it is a continuous exercise. Since the security teams moved into the forest last week, they have been able to reduce the pressure from the bandits operating along those corridors.

“We are clearing the areas step by step, particularly around our border communities.

“The aim is to clear out criminal hideouts and stabilise the situation in those areas. Sometimes, sustained pressure is required to ensure that an area becomes completely uninhabitable for criminals. That is exactly what we have started doing, and it will continue as long as necessary,” he said.

The retired general emphasised that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, is determined to guarantee the safety of lives and property and ensure residents can go about their lawful activities without fear.

Addressing residents, particularly those in affected communities, Ogundana called for calm and cooperation with security agencies.

According to him, “People should support us and provide useful information, especially those living within these environments. The government is making every effort to ensure that farmers return safely to their farms and that normal economic activities resume fully.

“Once they notice any strange movement or suspicious activity, they should promptly alert security agencies instead of spreading unverified information on social media.

“We understand the peculiar challenges along our borders with Kwara and Kogi states, but that will not stop us from doing our part. As I speak, the situation in the Ikole axis is being stabilised, and we are moving from one local government area to another to ensure complete clearance.”

The governor’s aide appealed to residents to remain patient and law-abiding, assuring them that the sustained security presence would ultimately guarantee lasting peace across the state’s border communities. (Nigerian Tribune)