Table of Contents
In light of the leaked security alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding planned coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo State by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terror group, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has emphasized that the administration led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa lacks the necessary commitment to address security challenges in the state.
The opposition party stated that security agencies have become demoralized due to what it termed the government's approach to security issues.
In a statement issued by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Wande T. Ajayi, the governor was urged to convene an immediate security summit, mobilize resources, and restore confidence among security agencies, stressing that the state requires decisive leadership.
While acknowledging that Ondo was once a beacon of peace and vigilance in the South-West, Ajayi expressed dismay that this legacy is being squandered, highlighting that previous administrations made significant efforts to enhance interagency collaboration and supported Amotekun.
The PDP Director of Media also asserted that the welfare of Amotekun officers must be urgently addressed, advocating for the integration of corps operatives into the state civil service to ensure job security, improved funding, and motivation to perform effectively.
“The previously vibrant Amotekun Corps, an innovative initiative that instilled confidence in the protection of lives and property, has been diminished to a struggling entity relying on empty promises and minimal allowances.
“The officers who once stood as the first line of defense in our communities now face poor welfare, insufficient logistics, and declining motivation because this government has prioritized photo opportunities over meaningful leadership.
“The Peoples Democratic Party finds it deeply troubling that while intelligence reports caution against potential terrorist activities in border communities, the governor’s approach to security management appears confined to traveling in private jets to attend events and making insubstantial statements,” he remarked.
In the meantime, the state government has urged residents to remain calm, characterizing the leaked memo as routine intelligence that is regularly shared among security agencies and the state government.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, stated that this routine intelligence is utilized to evaluate security threats and implement proactive measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the leaked security alert about?
The alert concerns planned coordinated attacks by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) on communities in Ondo State.
What is the response of the PDP to the security situation?
The PDP has criticized the state government for lacking seriousness in addressing security issues and has called for an urgent security summit.
What are the concerns regarding Amotekun?
Concerns include the poor welfare of Amotekun officers, inadequate logistics, and a lack of motivation due to insufficient support from the government.
How has the state government responded to the situation?
The government has urged residents to remain calm and described the leaked memo as routine intelligence used to assess security threats.
