Ogun State Government has introduced fresh security measures, including the registration of foreign workers across multinational companies, following the arrest of about 70 undocumented nationals within the last few days.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, who spoke with journalists in Iperu after a security meeting on Monday, said the state could not afford to overlook the growing concerns around banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities spreading across parts of the country.
He explained that the documentation exercise became necessary after security agencies intercepted foreigners from Niger, Chad and Sudan who could not explain their mission in the state.
“The law enforcement agencies have arrested, within the last three to four days, about 70 persons from Chad and Sudan who cannot even speak English and cannot explain what they are doing here.”
“We are going to process these individuals with the Nigeria Immigration Service. We will also be calling on our non-indigene communities to be more vigilant so that we know who is here and why they are here,” he said.
Abiodun stated that newcomers entering Ogun for the first time will undergo screening through their community leaders to ensure they are not being recruited to cause unrest.
He added that the government must know the purpose and source of livelihood of every non-indigene settling in the state.
The governor expressed worry over the growing activities of scavengers who, according to him, now pose more security risks.
He said law enforcement agents have been directed to pay particular attention to them and ensure they are not used as tools for criminal operations.
He noted that as Nigeria’s industrial capital, Ogun records more than five million daily commuters, which makes the state vulnerable and demands a more vigilant security system.
The governor also ordered immediate security operations in areas such as Zanga in Ijebu-Ode and similar enclaves, saying properties used by criminals would henceforth be taken over by government.
Speaking on the recent report of tension in Ajebo, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, Abiodun explained that security operatives had visited the settlement to confirm that the residents pose no threat.
He added that forest reserves across the state will be secured to prevent criminals from using them as hideouts.
Abiodun further disclosed that the activities of scrap dealers and scavengers were discussed extensively at the meeting, adding that they would be properly engaged and monitored.
He said the government is aware of illegal miners who operate as miscreants and assured that security agencies are working to clear criminal elements from mining sites and forest zones.
The governor urged residents to support community policing by reporting suspicious movements to security agencies, stressing that security requires collective vigilance.
“Security is not the responsibility of security agents alone. We must work with them. We must report anything suspicious so law enforcement can respond promptly. We must be observant and be our brother’s keeper,” he said.
Abiodun commended security agencies for their cooperation and thanked Tinubu for efforts at stabilizing the economy and supporting rescue operations in Niger and Kwara states.
He also cautioned Obas and Baales against allocating government land to strangers, warning that any traditional ruler found culpable would be held responsible.
