The Owa of Eruku, Oba Olanrewaju Busari, has urgently called for a permanent security base in his community following the rescue of abducted residents in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. Speaking on Monday, the Oba warned that Eruku remains highly vulnerable due to its location, which allows bandits to operate easily.
The monarch highlighted several security concerns:
- Dense Forest Linkages: The town is connected by large forests to neighboring states, including Ekiti and Kogi, making it easy for criminals to move, strike, and escape.
- Blending with Herders: Policing is difficult because attackers often “mix with herders,” making it hard for local vigilantes to identify and pursue them.
- Prior Warning Signs: The community had experienced earlier warnings, such as hearing gunshots and the harassment of farmers, though the scale of the recent abduction was unprecedented.
Oba Busari expressed gratitude to President Ahmed Tinubu and the Kwara State Government, led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for their prompt response and the successful deployment of security forces.
However, he stressed that a temporary response is insufficient for a border community facing persistent threat: “There must be a lasting solution, including the positioning of permanent security personnel, such as the military or a mobile police squadron.”
The monarch confirmed he has communicated this need to Governor AbdulRazaq and received a positive response that the government intends to establish a permanent Forward Operating Base in the community.
Oba Busari urged residents to remain vigilant by reporting any strange movements to the authorities. He confirmed that the rescued victims were in high spirits and were receiving proper care at the hospital.
