Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has advocated for the creation of a military Forward Operation Base in the state’s eastern region to help address rising criminal activities.
Governor Abiodun made this appeal on Wednesday when he hosted Major General Farooq Mijinyawa, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, at his Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta office.
Abiodun pointed out that the high volume of business activity in Ogun East is accompanied by increasing crime, stressing the need to enhance security.
The governor emphasized that a permanent military presence would deter criminals from nearby states migrating to Ogun for illicit activities.
He said: “One thing that would support our efforts to maintain peace in Ogun State is the establishment of a Forward Operation Base in the eastern zone.
“At present, the state capital is centrally located, and we have a military presence in Ogun West. However, with the growing commercial activity, especially near our new airport, there’s a need for increased security in Ogun East.
“Occasionally, there are incidents that challenge our resolve to maintain peace. Your experience as a law enforcement leader will affirm that rapid response is key to resolving such issues.
“The Brigade Commander has had to mobilize OP-MESA forces promptly to Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode in times of crisis. We’ve even deployed forces there temporarily to address issues, particularly with cultist activity in Sagamu-Ogijo, where criminal elements move between Ikorodu, Ogijo, and Sagamu. These situations can escalate if not addressed quickly. We must prevent news of insecurity, especially as Ogun is a major industrial hub.
“We can’t afford to have reports of criminal activities deter potential investors. Ensuring a military presence is a proactive way to keep crime in check. When criminals see this presence, they move to areas where they can act undisturbed.
“If we station Nigerian Army personnel in the Remo area, it would allow for rapid deployment. Our state government will provide the necessary resources to make this happen swiftly.”
The governor highlighted the importance of security for economic growth, praising the Army’s role in maintaining order in the state. He added that Ogun’s strategic location puts pressure on the government to ensure constant security and infrastructure development.
Abiodun commended the new GOC, stating that his background has fully prepared him for the role.
He called for continued cooperation with the Army and other security agencies to ensure peace, pledging his administration’s support for their efforts.
In his remarks, General Mijinyawa thanked the governor for his consistent support of the Army, particularly in caring for fallen soldiers’ families, celebrating Army events, and providing necessary logistics.
“My officers and men have been instructed to continue their efforts in ensuring the state’s peace and security. We will intensify our operations to ensure improved safety across Ogun,” General Mijinyawa concluded.
