… Hails inter-agency security synergy

… Commission moves to deploy private guards, CCTV

The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has disclosed that the
collaborative efforts of security agencies in coastal communities of the state towards ensuring peace have given investors confidence to indicate interest in the axis.

OSOPADEC Chairman Biyi Poroye disclosed this over the weekend during a dinner organised in honour of security chiefs in Akure, the state capital, where he lauded the partnership between state and federal security agencies.

The gathering, according to Poroye, was designed to recognise the sacrifices of security personnel whose coordinated efforts have transformed the state’s coastal belt into a hub of tranquilly.

Poroye revealed that beyond the conventional security framework provided by federal agencies, the state government has engaged two private security companies to complement existing operations, with more being profiled due to the vastness of the terrain.

He noted that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had also directed the installation of CCTV cameras along major public infrastructure corridors, including the Obe Nla Walkway, to enhance monitoring and intelligence sharing.

Poroye maintained that the peace currently being experienced is among the best in the region, providing a stable foundation for economic activities that had previously been stifled by insecurity.

He stressed that the challenges remain, particularly the menace of sea incursion and coastal erosion threatening communities such as Ayetoro, Awoye, Abereke, and Ajapa.

He said the state government is actively pursuing advocacy and partnerships with international donor agencies and humanitarian organisations, noting that the scale of the environmental crisis far exceeds the capacity of state resources alone.

“It an appreciation night for the security chiefs in the state to let them know how appreciative the people of Ondo state is and happy about what they have done for the state, as you can see the peace in the state is more enhanced with this sound cooperation the security chiefs are giving to the people and the government of Ondo state.

“I can say we are having one of the best serene environment in the coastal region of Ondo state, which has made it available for investors to come to the state, outside the conventional security arrangements of the country, the federal agencies, the government of Ondo state also have an internal arrangements with some security agencies,” Poroye stated.