The Agbekoya Farmers Society of Nigeria has announced the deployment of hundreds of its trained members to various villages and communities across Oyo State in a bid to curb the rising menace of banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
The development was disclosed on Sunday following an emergency security meeting held in Ibadan, where the group reviewed the growing security challenges confronting the state and the country at large.
Tension has escalated in parts of Oyo State, especially in Saki, within the Oke Ogun geopolitical zone, after residents raised the alarm over the reported movement of a notorious wanted criminal in the area. The individual was allegedly sighted a few days ago, heightening fears among locals already concerned about increasing insecurity.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Deacon Olatunji Bandele, and the group’s Oyo State Governor, High Chief Olatunde Bello Ashagidigbi, Agbekoya expressed deep worry over the surge in violent crimes nationwide. It notably referenced recent incidents in Kwara, Kogi, Kebbi, and Borno States, where communities have suffered deadly attacks and mass abductions.
To forestall similar tragedies in Oyo State, the organisation confirmed that it has deployed security-conscious members to identified flashpoints. The personnel, it said, will work collaboratively with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to bolster surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid response capabilities.
According to the communique, the move is part of Agbekoya’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding farmers and rural communities from criminal elements who threaten livelihoods and food production.
“Agbekoya condemns the breakdown of Nigeria’s security architecture, which has exposed our villages, communities, and schools to attacks by suspected bandits and criminal herdsmen. In the last few weeks alone, the country has witnessed disturbing incidents of mass abductions and killings,” the statement read.
The group urged governors across the South-West to intensify security efforts in their respective states, stressing that citizens are anxious and need renewed reassurance from political leaders.
It added that stronger collaboration between the government and communities remains essential in confronting the worsening insecurity. As a grassroots organisation with deep local networks, Agbekoya reaffirmed its readiness to support security agencies in safeguarding Oyo’s rural settlements.
