Ogun Revitalises School Security with New Multi-Agency Initiative

By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Government has unveiled plans to strengthen security around schools across the state as part of efforts to protect students and educational institutions from emerging security threats.

Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this while hosting members of the League of Imams and Alfas at his residence in Iperu during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The governor said the initiative became necessary in view of recent security developments in neighbouring states, stressing that his administration was determined to proactively safeguard schools and secure the future of children in Ogun State.

According to him, the government will deploy a combination of conventional security agencies and local security outfits, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters, and vigilante groups, to provide adequate protection for schools across the state.

“We have decided to engage the services of our security agencies, including the So-Safe Corps, Amotekun Corps, hunters, and other vigilante groups, to provide security in our schools. We need to do this to protect the lives of our future generation,” he said.

Governor Abiodun added that the security architecture would involve collaboration among traditional rulers, religious leaders, and law enforcement agencies to ensure effective coordination and surveillance around schools.

“We will mobilise the Amotekun Corps, the So-Safe Corps, and all vigilante groups for the protection of schools across the length and breadth of the state. We will also provide stipends to encourage and support the initiative, and implementation will commence immediately,” he stated.

The governor explained that the programme was designed to prevent a recurrence of incidents recorded in some neighbouring states, noting that the safety of schoolchildren remains a top priority for his administration.

While acknowledging the role of prayers in sustaining peace and stability, he emphasised the need for practical measures to guarantee the security of students and educational institutions.

Abiodun also announced the inauguration of a Direct Impact Committee charged with touring communities across the state to identify and address the pressing needs of residents.

He said the committee would facilitate the provision of transformers, boreholes, solar-powered streetlights, and other essential amenities based on the specific needs of various communities.

The governor further revealed that the initiative would provide monthly financial support to 10 persons in each of the 5,043 polling units across the state’s 236 wards as part of efforts to cushion the effects of economic hardship at the grassroots.

He assured traditional rulers and religious leaders of active participation in the selection of beneficiaries, describing them as critical stakeholders who are closest to the people at the grassroots level.

Governor Abiodun commended religious leaders for their prayers, support, and commitment to peaceful coexistence, which he said have continued to promote socio-economic development and stability in the state.

“You have contributed immensely to the peace we currently enjoy in our state because development cannot thrive in a chaotic environment. Please do not stop praying for us. We also need your continued support for our law enforcement agencies so that we can sustain the peace and progress we are witnessing today,” the governor said.