Makinde raises alarm over influx of terrorists into Oyo, says ‘bandits were 2km away from where I lodged’

Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State governor has raised an alarm over the influx of terrorists from the Northwest into the state due to a continued military incursion.

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.

He said: “The year 2024 was challenging, particularly in terms of safety and security.

“We had incidents of fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. However, in 2025, we will redouble our efforts to address these issues.”

“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.”

“During my birthday retreat, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”

The governor urged residents and traditional rulers to report any suspicious movements.

“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 noted.

Nigerian states especially in the Northern region are battling from activities of bandits and terrorists, a situation that has usually led to deaths, kidnappings, destructions and destabilisation of states.