The Ekiti State Government has approved the establishment of a new military base in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen security in border communities and prevent future attacks.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji gave the directive on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the Eda Oniyo community led by the Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, during a thank-you visit to the Government House.
The governor also ordered the speedy completion of the Divisional Police Station currently under construction in Eda Oniyo, describing the facility as critical to improving the community’s security architecture.
Oyebanji said the state government remains committed to protecting all communities from criminal activities and ensuring residents can live without fear.
“I want a military base at Eda Oniyo. It is extremely important. Whatever it is going to cost us, bring it to me and I will approve it,” the governor said.
He noted that the state already deploys combined patrol teams made up of soldiers, police officers and other security personnel to secure the border community against criminals crossing in from neighbouring states.
The governor also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the creation of state police, describing the initiative as a timely step toward tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
While acknowledging that Eda Oniyo has experienced years of slow development due to a prolonged dispute over the local government headquarters, Oyebanji assured residents that his administration would transform the community and improve infrastructure.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the President of the Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr. Rufus Ojo, expressed appreciation for the governor’s intervention during the community’s recent security challenges, particularly the support provided to rescued kidnap victims.
He also appealed to the government to develop the vast agricultural land in the area, saying it would boost economic activities while enhancing security.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser on Security Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd), Special Adviser on Media Yinka Oyebode, community leaders, and relatives of recently rescued kidnapping victims….See more