Residents hail operation as council chairman vows sustained crackdown on criminal activities across the local government.
A joint security operation led by the Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, Hon. Kehinde Akande, has uncovered a suspected criminal hideout in the Odo-Ona area of the council, bringing relief to residents who had endured months of insecurity.
The location, described by community members as a hub for illegal activities, had allegedly been linked to vandalism and other criminal acts disrupting peace in the area. Residents said repeated efforts to address the situation were unsuccessful despite several evacuation notices issued over a six-month period.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with security agencies, involved top council officials, including the Head of Local Government Administration, Alhaji Babatunde Olagunju, the Director of Works, Alhaji Olona, and other local government personnel. Items suspected to have been used for unlawful activities were recovered during the raid.
Speaking after the operation, Hon. Akande reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to thrive within the council area.
“Security of lives and property remains our top priority. We will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure Ibadan South West remains safe for everyone,” he said.
Community leaders commended the intervention, describing it as timely and historic. Chairman of Gada/Olugbode Community, Odo-Ona, Adepoju Popoola, said the operation would enable residents to sleep peacefully once again.
The Baale of Odo-Ona, Oloye Mojeed Gunwa Tajo, also expressed appreciation, noting that the raid had restored confidence and calm to residents.
The local government has pledged to sustain regular security patrols and deepen community engagement as part of efforts to maintain peace and security across all wards.