Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed that security remains the foremost priority of his administration, assuring residents that decisive steps are being taken to protect lives and property across the state.

The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday during a tour of Ose, Owo, and Akure North Local Government Areas, where he addressed residents and community leaders on the government’s security efforts and broader development agenda.

Aiyedatiwa said his administration had placed security at the centre of its EASE agenda, stressing that law enforcement agencies had been put on high alert to safeguard communities, especially those along border areas prone to criminal activity. He warned that crimes in border communities would not be tolerated, pledging that residents would not be left vulnerable to attacks.

His remarks come against the backdrop of deadly attacks earlier in the year in parts of Akure North Local Government Area, where suspected bandits reportedly killed more than 20 people in communities such as Aba Alajido, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Ademekun.

According to the governor, the establishment of an Amotekun Rangers camp and the deployment of operatives have significantly curbed criminal activities in affected areas. He noted that the improved security situation has enabled farmers and traders to resume their daily activities without fear, restoring confidence among residents.

Aiyedatiwa explained that his ongoing tour of the state’s 18 local government areas was part of efforts to bring governance closer to the grassroots, appreciate citizens for their support, and showcase projects that have been completed or are currently underway.

With the Christmas season approaching, the governor said the visits would also serve as an avenue to spread goodwill, including the distribution of palliatives to support residents during the festive period.

He assured the people of Ose Local Government Area that their concerns about the poor state of the roads were being addressed and that rehabilitation work would commence soon. The governor also highlighted interventions in electricity supply, school shuttle buses, and other social programmes, attributing them to reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu, which he said had strengthened Ondo State’s capacity to deliver development projects.

Aiyedatiwa reiterated his commitment to sustaining peace and development across the state, emphasizing that security would remain the foundation upon which other aspects of governance would thrive.