By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State — Joint security agencies last week launched a major operation across forests in Ekiti North Senatorial District to flush out bandits fleeing from Kwara and Kogi states. The operation, ordered by Governor Biodun Oyebanji and coordinated by Special Adviser on Security, Brig Gen Ebenezer Ogundana (retd), targets criminal camps in border communities. Security forces say they have made several arrests and will sustain the offensive until they clear the forests.
Why Ekiti Launched the Forest Security Operation
Brig Gen Ogundana said pressure on criminals in Kwara State forced them to seek refuge in Ekiti forests.
“They are escaping from the heat in Kwara and looking for a safe place,” he said.
He explained that criminals often regroup, build capacity, and begin kidnappings once they settle. Therefore, Ekiti moved quickly to prevent that pattern.
“Our mission is to ensure nobody uses any part of Ekiti as a base to attack our people,” Ogundana added.
Security Agencies Involved in the Operation
The Ekiti forest security operation involves both conventional and unconventional forces. These include:
- Nigerian Army
- Department of State Services
- Nigeria Police Force
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
- Amotekun Corps
- Ekiti State Agro Marshal Corps
- Vigilante groups and local hunters
According to Ogundana, the joint team has operated in the forests since last week. The operation remains ongoing.
Communities Affected by Bandit Attacks
Recent security breaches triggered the operation.
In Erinmope, Moba Local Government Area, bandits kidnapped family members and later released them after ransom payment.
Similarly, residents of Irele in Ikole Local Government Area reported shootings and abductions.
Security officials say the criminals viewed Ekiti forests as a safe haven after facing crackdowns in neighbouring states.
Operation Routes Across Ekiti Borders
Security teams have mapped out strategic routes to block escape paths.
One team moves from Ayedun through Ipao, Oke Ako, and Irele toward Ogbe in Kogi State.
Another team advances from Itapaji to Gede, then to Iyemero, Eruku, and Kuru in Kwara State.
After clearing those corridors, forces will proceed toward the Kogi border near Erinmope.
Arrests and Ongoing Profiling
Security operatives have made several arrests during the surprise operation.
Authorities are profiling suspects to determine their level of involvement in criminal activities.
Ogundana described the exercise as an unannounced mission that caught many suspects off guard.
Continuous Effort to Secure Ekiti Forests
The Ekiti forest security operation will continue until authorities dislodge all criminal camps.
Governor Oyebanji has pledged full support for the mission.
Security agencies say they will maintain pressure to prevent any regrouping of bandits within the state.
