Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has raised an alarm about bandits from the Northwest relocating to the state due to increased military activity in their region. He made this statement during the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers in Agodi, Ibadan.

Makinde explained that the ongoing military operations in the Northwest have forced bandits to flee to other regions, including Oyo State. However, the governor assured the public that these criminals will not be allowed to settle in Oyo. He is committed to ensuring the safety of the state’s residents.

“2024 was a challenging year for us, especially concerning security issues like armed robberies, kidnappings, and fire outbreaks. But in 2025, we will take stronger measures to address these problems,” Makinde said. He added that, during a recent security briefing, it was confirmed that some of these criminals have relocated to Oyo to escape the military’s pressure in the Northwest.

The governor also shared a concerning incident from his birthday retreat, where bandits were reported to have camped less than two kilometers away. He stressed that this situation reflects the seriousness of the security threat.

Makinde urged traditional rulers in the state to be vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the authorities. He reassured residents that their safety is his top priority. “Bandits will have no foothold in Oyo. I will not rest until the entire state is safe,” he emphasized.