Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reassured residents that the safety of lives and property remains the foremost focus of his administration.

Speaking during a tour of Ose, Owo, and Akure North Local Government Areas on Wednesday, the governor said his government was fully committed to protecting communities across the state and would not tolerate criminal activities, especially in border areas.

According to Aiyedatiwa, security tops his administration’s EASE agenda, with security agencies placed on high alert to respond swiftly to any threats. He assured residents that the government would not abandon them or allow criminal elements to disrupt their daily lives.

The governor’s remarks come months after violent attacks by suspected bandits in parts of Akure North Local Government Area, where over 20 people were reportedly killed in communities such as Aba Alajido, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Ademekun.

Aiyedatiwa noted that the establishment of an Amotekun Rangers camp and the deployment of security operatives had significantly reduced criminal activities in the affected areas. He said the improved security situation had enabled farmers and traders to resume their work without fear, while also restoring public confidence in the government.

He explained that his ongoing tour of the state’s 18 local government areas was designed to bring governance closer to the grassroots, appreciate residents for their support, and update them on completed and ongoing projects.

With Christmas just days away, the governor said the visit also provided an opportunity to share goodwill with residents through the distribution of palliatives to ease the festive season.

Addressing infrastructure concerns, Aiyedatiwa assured residents of Ose Local Government Area that their bad roads would soon be rehabilitated. He added that improvements in electricity supply, the introduction of school shuttle buses, and other social programmes were outcomes of reforms by President Bola Tinubu, which he said had strengthened the state’s ability to deliver meaningful development.

The governor reaffirmed that his administration would continue to prioritise security and development to ensure a safer and more prosperous Ondo State.