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A former chairman of Itesiwaju Local Government Area in Oyo State, Thomas Olayode, has declared that the influx of displaced persons from the northern part of the country into the Oke Ogun geopolitical zone in the state poses security threats.
DAILY POST reports that the Oke Ogun geopolitical zone comprises ten local government areas and falls under Oyo North senatorial district.
Olayode explained that the zone, known for its vast arable land and farming activities, has over the years been plagued by clashes between farmers and Fulani herdsmen.
The former Chairman made these declarations via a statement made available to DAILY POST on Sunday.
In the statement, Olayode recommended that the state government engage with the local community, traditional leaders, and security agencies to develop a comprehensive strategy to manage the situation.
Titled “Oke-Ogun on Edge: Influx of Displaced Northerners Raises Security Concerns,” Olayode also advised the state governor to provide adequate resources and support to the security agencies to enable them to effectively monitor and respond to any security threats which may arise from the forced influx.
“Oke-Ogun is a region comprising 10 local governments, sharing a border with Benin Republic, thereby making it vulnerable to cross-border movements and potential security threats. The influx of strangers, mostly from Northern Nigeria, has raised concerns among the local population, who fear for their safety and security.
“The Oyo State government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, must therefore take proactive measures to address the potential security challenges arising from this influx. The government must engage with the local community, traditional leaders, and security agencies to develop a comprehensive strategy to manage the situation.
“The government must also provide adequate resources and support to the security agencies to enable them to effectively monitor and respond to any security threats which may arise from the forced influx. The establishment of community policing initiatives and intelligence gathering networks would be essential in preventing and addressing potential security issues.
“The introduction of new settlers from a different cultural and ethnic background may exacerbate existing tensions and potentially lead to social insecurity problems. The region has a unique cultural identity, and the introduction of new cultural practices and beliefs may lead to tensions and conflicts. Historical templates are indicative of future events.
“The government must prioritize the protection of farmland and agricultural resources to ensure the continued production of food for the state.
“Furthermore, the government must establish a framework for the integration of the new settlers into the local community. This framework must include initiatives for cultural exchange, language training, and economic empowerment to promote social cohesion and reduce tensions.
“In conclusion, the influx of displaced people from Northern Nigeria into Oke-Ogun poses significant security concerns for the region. The Oyo State government must take proactive measures to address these concerns and ensure the safety and security of the local community. The government must prioritize community engagement, security, and infrastructure development to manage the potential challenges arising from this influx.”
