Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed the commitment of the Oyo State Government to supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in strengthening security operations across the state.
The governor gave the assurance during the inauguration of the Oyo State Police Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and its Oversight Committee, held at the Police Command headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan.
Makinde described the establishment of the VCRU as the first initiative of its kind in the South-West region, noting that it underscored the collective resolve of government and security stakeholders to protect lives and property in Oyo State.
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, alongside other security agencies operating in the state, for their sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security.
According to the governor, the newly inaugurated unit is expected to play a significant role in tackling violent crimes and strengthening public safety in the state and across the country.
Speaking on the recent abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area, Makinde sympathised with the families of the victims who lost their lives, describing the incident as a stark reminder of the need for proactive security measures.
He stated that the government was already collaborating closely with security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The governor also urged residents and community leaders to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
Makinde assured residents that his administration would continue to prioritise security through effective collaboration with law enforcement agencies and sustained investment in the state’s security architecture.
Earlier in his address, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, described the launch of the VCRU as a major policing reform initiative designed to improve professionalism, tactical operations, and public confidence in policing.
He explained that the unit was introduced to replace former tactical squads with a more accountable, intelligence-driven, and human-rights-compliant structure capable of responding swiftly to violent crimes and emerging security threats.
The police commissioner disclosed that officers deployed to the VCRU were carefully selected from various formations and divisions across the state based on competence, operational experience, integrity, and discipline.
Olugbenga also applauded the Makinde administration for its consistent support for security agencies, noting that the government’s commitment to peace and institutional backing had continued to motivate security personnel.
In separate goodwill messages, the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Nurudeen Akinade, and the Oyo State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, Abayomi Ogundele, described the initiative as a major step towards enhancing public safety and strengthening collaboration among security institutions in the state.
They also commended the Oyo State Government for sustaining a robust security framework and fostering cordial relationships among security agencies.
