Sir: Security plays a vital role in the stability, development and progress of any nation. Since no nation can afford to do without law and order, the provision of security is often considered as paramount amongst the several functions of government. Though no nation is totally immune to such conditions, Nigeria has had more than enough share of crime and the time has come for governments at all levels to be seriously concerned about the provision and management of security.
In Ogun State, where the government has placed premium on the security of lives and property, any direct challenge to individual or collective security is bound to generate a big response on the part of government and security agencies. It also will elicit a big expectation on the part of the citizenry.
Few weeks ago, the security system of Ogun State was stubbornly challenged with the abduction of the former Minister of Education, Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, around her farmland in Igbogila/Sawonjo area of Ogun State. The abduction was like a tale from a James Bond’s film. Dogged by suspense, apprehension, threat, intrigues, high wired technology deployment and relief, the episode of her abduction and rescue six days later would reverberate for some time to come.
The success story of the rescue operation would not be complete without mentioning the contribution of the governor and chief security officer of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, the Assistant-Inspector General of Police for Lagos and Ogun states, Mr. Bala Hassan, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Almajid Ali, the Brigade Commandant of Alamala Barracks of Nigerian Army and the Director of SSS in the state.
In all this, the security system of Ogun State is the winner. I wish to acknowledge the philosophy of the state government tagged the “Ogun Standard”, which has been applied to all the sectors of the state, including security. The philosophy ensures that all the policies and projects of government meet the required international standards.
Wole Elegbede,
Imeko, Ogun State.
