The Ondo State Government has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the deployment of additional military personnel to communities affected by recent violent attacks. The move comes after months of growing insecurity in parts of the state, where armed groups have targeted rural settlements, farmlands, and highways.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the federal intervention as timely and necessary, noting that local security forces had been overstretched by the frequency and scale of attacks. He said the presence of more troops has already begun restoring confidence among residents who had fled their homes or abandoned their farms due to fear.
Security reports indicate that several remote communities had suffered repeated incursions, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property. Farmers, who form a major part of the state economy, were among the worst affected, as many could no longer access their farmlands safely. The governor said the renewed military presence is helping to reopen farming routes and secure key rural roads.
Community leaders in affected areas confirmed that patrols have increased and checkpoints have been established along vulnerable corridors. They expressed hope that sustained operations would deter further attacks and allow displaced residents to return home.
Security analysts caution, however, that troop deployment alone may not solve the problem. They stress the importance of intelligence gathering, cooperation with local vigilante groups, and addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and unemployment. The Ondo State Government says it is working closely with federal agencies to improve coordination and ensure long term stability.
Residents have welcomed the development, calling for permanent security bases in high risk areas. Civil society groups also urged authorities to provide humanitarian support to families affected by the violence.
Officials say the state will continue engaging the federal government to strengthen security infrastructure while pursuing community based strategies to promote peace and resilience.
