Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has appealed to the Nigeria Police Force to deploy additional personnel to the state, particularly to bolster security in border communities and address rising criminal activities.
The governor made the call on Thursday while receiving the new Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 17 (comprising Ondo and Ekiti States), Ajani Musbau Omolabi, at his office in Ado-Ekiti. With the state preparing for an upcoming election season, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the need for heightened security efforts to maintain peace and public safety.
While affirming Ekiti’s reputation as one of the safest states in the country, the governor expressed concern over inadequate security coverage in many rural areas. He warned that these gaps leave residents vulnerable and risk undermining the overall safety achievements recorded so far.
Governor Oyebanji urged the AIG not to reduce the current police strength in the state, stressing that any such move could further weaken an already overstretched security apparatus.
I must appeal to you not to deplete our existing personnel. We are already underserved, and many communities still lack any police presence,” he said. “While I understand the broader manpower challenges the Force faces, maintaining our current numbers is critical to sustaining security in Ekiti.”
Commending the state’s police leadership for its professionalism and commitment, Governor Oyebanji noted that their efforts have significantly curbed criminality and created a safer environment that continues to attract investors.
He reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting the Nigeria Police and other security agencies, promising continued investments in infrastructure, equipment, and strategic partnerships to enhance safety across the state.
You said you are here to work, and we’re ready to work with you. The police have added great value to our state. Incidents of kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes have dropped significantly, thanks to our strong collaboration. I must also commend the Commissioner of Police for his role in achieving this progress,” Oyebanji stated.
In his response, AIG Ajani Musbau said his visit aimed to strengthen relationships with the state government and acknowledge the governor’s unwavering support for the police. He credited the governor’s efforts with improving the effectiveness of law enforcement in Ekiti.
The AIG assured the governor of his commitment to sustaining peace and security, emphasizing that protecting lives and maintaining order would remain a top priority under his watch.
Also present at the meeting were Chief of Staff Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo; Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd); Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode; and the Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, among others.
