Following the escalation of insecurity in the country, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, directed that all foreign nationals in the state be properly documented in accordance with security protocols and immigration regulations.
The move, according to the governor, will help the state remain pro-active and maintain its position as one of the more peaceful states in the country.
Abiodun also warned that any landlord or individual found to be accommodating miscreants or criminal elements will be decisively dealt with in line with the law.
DAILY POST reports that the governor gave the directive while briefing newsmen shortly after a marathon meeting which lasted at about two hours with security chiefs in the state.
The meeting, held in Iperu, reviewed the current security landscape, assessed emerging issues at both the state and national levels and focused on strengthening coordination among security agencies.
Abiodun while congratulating President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies for the progress made in the rescue efforts of the kidnap victims in Niger and Kwara state, insisted that the best time to prepare for war is during a period of peace, stressing that Ogun State’s well-earned status as a peaceful and stable environment must be continuously protected.
He said, “We want to commend Mr President for providing leadership particularly as economy has turned the corner and stabilized despite different false narratives are being promoted .
“We congratulate Mr President and the security agencies for the progress made in the rescue efforts of the kidnap victims in Niger/Kwara.
“As the industrial capital of Nigeria and the gateway state that connects the financial capital to the rest of the country we have and must continue to be proactive in ensuring that we sustain our position as one of the more peaceful states in Nigeria.
“The best time to prepare for war is during peace. There cannot be economic development in atmosphere of insecurity, this is why I have called the security meeting this morning.”
Abiodun also ordered the dismantling of Zaga settlement in the Ijebu area of the state to prevent its continued use for unlawful activities, adding that activities of scavengers across the state will be strictly regulated to curb criminal infiltration and illicit practices.
The governor added, “All foreign nationals within the state must be properly documented in accordance with security protocols and immigration regulations. The Zaga settlement is to be dismantled and taken over by the government to prevent its continued use for unlawful activities.
“Landlords and individuals found to be accommodating miscreants or criminal elements will be decisively dealt with in line with the law. The establishment of a Forward Operating Base, FOB, around Ilara, a key border community in Yewa North, will be prioritised to tighten border security.
“Activities of scavengers across the State will be strictly regulated to curb criminal infiltration and illicit practices. All illegal mining activities will be confronted decisively, with perpetrators apprehended and prosecuted.”
Meanwhile, the governor assured residents that his administration remains fully committed to maintaining peace, stability, and the security of lives and property, urging all to provide timely information to ensure and promote prompt response by law enforcement .