Makinde Vows to Protect Oyo from Criminals Fleeing the North, Rejects State of Emergency in Rivers
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has firmly stated that his administration will not welcome errant herdsmen, illegal miners, or criminals and bandits seeking refuge from the northern part of Nigeria in the South-West and other regions.
Governor Makinde made this declaration in his monthly newsletter, revealing that the Oyo State Security Council held an expanded meeting on Thursday to discuss security challenges in the state.
“One thing is certain, Oyo State will not welcome such criminals. We will push back to ensure that they are flushed out of our State. Our deliberations today were centered on strategies and roles we must play to ensure that we continue to keep our dear State safe and secure,” the Governor stated.
Makinde further emphasized the importance of safeguarding the peace that has contributed to the state’s economic growth, noting that Oyo State’s GDP has grown by over 50% since 2019.
The Governor also addressed the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State. He expressed concern over actions that threaten the development of the nation, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right, even if it means standing alone.
“This is why I stand today to say that the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose,” Makinde stated.
He further stressed the importance of preserving democratic tenets, asserting, “Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with no matter our personal feelings and loyalties. This is the time to take a stand for fairness, equity, and justice.”
Governor Makinde also reflected on the decision made by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, which unanimously resolved to challenge President Tinubu’s actions in a court of competent jurisdiction. He concluded, “We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we built for almost three decades be trampled upon. The time to act is now.”
As reported, President Tinubu suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months due to political disputes in the state. This decision was ratified by both chambers of the National Assembly during a plenary session on Thursday.
