The Ogun State House of Assembly has called on the State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to reinforce its collaboration with local security outfits, including the Amotekun Corps, So Safe Corps, Vigilante Service, and Hunters Association.
This, the lawmakers noted, would enhance the security network, safeguard critical infrastructure, and protect lives and property across the State, particularly in rural areas and farmlands.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, made the call while receiving the new NSCDC State Commandant, Commandant Remilekun Ekundayo, who paid a courtesy visit to the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Emphasizing the importance of synergy among security agencies, Elemide stated, “Effective collaboration with all relevant local security outfits will strengthen the Corps in carrying out its core mandate of securing national assets and addressing security challenges.”
He assured the Corps of the Assembly’s support through necessary advocacy and legislative backing, promising that lawmakers were committed to providing the needed assistance to ensure the protection of farmlands and other vulnerable areas in the State.
In their separate remarks, Deputy Speaker Hon. Bolanle Lateefat Ajayi, Minority Leader Hon. Lukman Adeleye, Deputy Chief Whip Hon. Babatunde Tella, and Hon. Waliu Owode called for increased deployment of NSCDC personnel to rural communities.
They emphasized the need for stronger security presence to protect farmers and their farmlands, as well as other critical infrastructure.
The lawmakers also commended the NSCDC for establishing the Agro-Ranger Unit, which has been instrumental in protecting farmers and resolving conflicts between herders and farmers.
Earlier, Commandant Remilekun Ekundayo lauded the Ogun State Assembly for its legislative efforts in maintaining peace and stability in the State.
She reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to its core duties, which include protecting national critical assets, securing farmlands, and safeguarding lives and property.
She highlighted additional security measures introduced by the Corps, including counterterrorism operations, anti-vandalism efforts, and the formation of a Female Squad dedicated to securing schools and protecting students from kidnapping, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education.
Ekundayo further commended the Ogun State government for its continued support of the Corps but requested additional assistance to enhance operational efficiency.
