Fresh Security Shake-Up In Oyo As Makinde Moves Against Unregulated Vigilante Groups

The governor said the directive became necessary to ensure that vigilante groups and other community-based security outfits operate within a proper legal and operational structure that promotes peace, public order, and the rule of law.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held on Wednesday in Ibadan, Makinde explained that the decision was prompted by rising security challenges in communities and the increasing activities of unregulated groups involved in security operations.

He noted that while security remains a shared responsibility between government and citizens, the executive order was introduced to ensure all organisations involved in security and allied services are properly registered, documented, and monitored by the state government.

Makinde also warned residents and socio-cultural groups against actions or statements capable of triggering ethnic tension, stressing that the government would not tolerate ethnic profiling, discrimination, or violence disguised as security operations.

The governor further addressed the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring residents that the state government, alongside security agencies and other stakeholders, is making efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.

He commended security agencies and residents for remaining calm during the tense situation and reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving security coordination throughout the state.

Makinde also urged residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies instead of taking the law into their own hands.

Earlier, the Oyo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, explained that all groups, associations, and organisations involved in security-related services with more than five members must register with the government through the Office of the Special Adviser on Security.

He added that already existing groups have been given 72 hours from the signing of the order to notify the government and comply with registration, documentation, and certification requirements.

Aikomo stated that the regulation would help authorities properly identify and monitor individuals or groups operating in security uniforms or carrying weapons within the state.

He warned that failure to comply with the executive order would amount to a breach of the law and could attract sanctions.

According to him, the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Commissioner of Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have been mandated to enforce immediate compliance with the order, which took effect as soon as it was signed by the governor.