The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday issued a stern warning to criminals and their sponsors operating in the state, declaring that his administration would deal decisively with kidnappers and their collaborators, regardless of their status or influence.

The governor expressed concern over the rising cases of abduction in the state, noting that one community had recorded three kidnapping incidents within the past two months.

Describing the development as alarming, Aiyedatiwa called for urgent and coordinated action from all stakeholders. He made the remarks during a security meeting with community leaders and representatives of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

Aiyedatiwa disclosed that security agencies had arrested about 90 suspects in connection with kidnapping and related crimes across the state, adding that some of those arrested had begun making confessional statements.
“If investigations trace any criminal activity to anyone, whether they have legitimate business or not, they will be treated like criminals. No godfather, sponsor or collaborator will be spared,” the governor said.

The governor also urged traditional rulers, community leaders and parents to caution youths against engaging in criminal activities.

He frowned at the recent protest by youths in the Ilu-Abo area, who barricaded the Akure–Owo Highway over incessant kidnappings and killings.
“Just yesterday, representatives of the landlords’ association of that community were here with me, and we had discussions. We agreed on what we have to do there,” he said.
“I have directed the commissioner of police to immediately deploy a minimum of two vehicles to the police post in that area as requested. But despite that, they still went ahead with the protest.
“That is why we always tell people that protest should not be the first line of action. When you start it, you don’t know who is who. When it is hijacked, other crimes can follow,” he added.

Aiyedatiwa further revealed that intelligence reports indicated that some criminal elements displaced by security operations in neighbouring states such as Kwara State and Kogi State might be attempting to move into Ondo State.

He therefore urged leaders of the association to provide useful intelligence that would help security agencies identify criminal elements, adding that the government was working on providing logistics support for surveillance efforts within the herders’ community.

Speaking on behalf of Fulani leaders, the chairman of the Ondo State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Ali Abubakar Maunde, said insecurity in the state had become a concern for all stakeholders.

Maunde noted that the association had been collaborating with security agencies and government officials but stressed that criminal activities should not be attributed solely to Fulani herders.