Lagos-Ibadan bandit attacks: Police foiled joint patrol idea – Gani Adams

The Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services, DSS, opposed an initiative aimed at securing the Lagos-Ibadan expressway from bandit attacks, says Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland.

Adams said the offer was to be done in good faith to force down the rate of kidnappings and killings and nip other challenges in the bud.

Iba Gani Adams further stated that collaboration with the regional body, Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG), would have reduced terrible incidences on the expressway.

Gani Adams said being the Aare, many people have requested his mediation, reminding the government that its operatives alone cannot secure lives and property.

“It’s time to tell the world of our efforts in securing the region. The road has become volatile for travellers, there is a need for urgent intervention.

“The SSSG, with about 10 security groups, have the strength to support the police in making sure that the spate of insecurity is curbed.”

The organization comprises Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Agbekoya, Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Agbekoya Peace Movement.

Others are Vigilante Yahun, Professional Hunters of Nigeria, Agbekoya Farmers Society, Hunters Association of Nigeria, Isokan Oodua and COMSAIC.

However, in a statement on Thursday, Gani Adams condemned incessant attacks on travellers by bandits and robbers operating on the ever-busy road, he further disclosed that in September 2021, the SSSG wrote to the police and DSS for joint patrol.

“The reason for the request is to use our strength and network to secure the Lagos-Ibadan expressway which has remained porous.

“The idea came up after a series of meetings with leaders and members of the Southwest Security Stakeholders Group.

“The letter dated September 22, 2021, was addressed to Security Advisers, Commissioners of Police, Directors of State Security Services (DSS), and other agencies in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo.” he said

Adams was declared to be the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland by Oba Adeyemi III, the Alaafin of Oyo on October 14, 2017. The chieftaincy title was last held by Chief Moshood Abiola before his death in 1998.