According to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, a persistent military assault is causing bandits from the Northwest to flee to the state.

But Makinde promised to deal with the escaping bandits and smoke them out.

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He gave a speech during the annual interfaith ceremony for workers in the state capital of Ibadan’s Agodi neighborhood in 2025.

The governor clarified that bandits were compelled to evacuate from their hiding places to Ibadan due to the ongoing military assault in the Northwest.

“2024 was a difficult year, especially in terms of safety and security,” he stated.

We experienced kidnappings, armed robberies, and fire outbreaks. We will, however, further up our efforts to address these concerns in 2025.

Because of the military heat in their zones, some dangerous elements from the North-West are moving here, I found out during a security briefing this morning. However, we will locate and address them.

Bandits had set up camp less than two kilometers from my lodging during my birthday vacation.

“This emphasizes how bad the issue is.”

The governor also instructed traditional leaders to notify security personnel of any suspicious activity occurring in their region.

He gave the locals his word that they were safe.

“To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately.

“For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this state is safe,” Makinde said.