Akeredolu alleges foreigners perpetrating crimes in forests

• Charges Immigration to secure land borders, seeks state police
• APC South-West Reps Caucus backs gov on security measures

Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has decried the activities of some foreign herders in the state’s forest reserves, stressing that most crimes are perpetrated by these foreigners who have almost remained permanent in the area.

Akeredolu, who charged the officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to heighten security at the land borders, said the entry of foreigners into the country through the land borders was alarming.

The governor spoke during a courtesy visit to his office in Akure by the Zonal Co-ordinator of Zone ‘F’ of the NIS, comprising Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states, Dora E Amahian.

He charged the Immigration personnel to do more in securing the land borders to prevent unknown individuals from coming into the country without record and identity.

“We all know what this Service is established to do. It’s clear to us. The number of people who come into Nigeria through the land border is becoming alarming.

“Knowing your efforts to secure our borders, we are worried about some foreigners that come in and are almost permanent in our forest reserves.”

The Immigration boss, in her remarks, appreciated the governor for the cordial relationship between him and the Immigration.

She said the passion of the governor for good governance and delivery of dividends of democracy had been seen in his ability to maintain peace as evident in the peaceful co-existence of the diverse people in the state.

MEANWHILE, the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-West Caucus in the House of Representatives has declared support for the governor’s fight against criminality in the region.

The leader of the delegation, Femi Fakeye (Osun), who spoke on behalf of the 72 members of the Caucus, said they were in support of any legitimate steps to flush out criminals in the South-West.

While responding to the APC lawmakers’ support, Akeredolu said the protection of life and property of the people must take priority, adding that it was a duty he was elected to perform.

He said that it was part of the move to secure Ondo State and South-West in general that led to the creation of Amotekun Corps.