In a concerted effort to tackle banditry and other criminal activities, the governments of Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos states on Monday launched a joint security operation to enhance safety on major highways and urban areas across the South West region.
The collaborative initiative, aimed at protecting commuters, residents, and businesses, focused particularly on high-risk routes, including the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and connecting roads linking the three states.
Dubbed the “Joint Show of Force,” the exercise was coordinated by the police commands of the three states in partnership with other security agencies. The operation began from the Lagos end of the expressway and concluded at Ojoo, Ibadan, highlighting a unified approach to crime prevention across the region.
Speaking at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan, the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (retd), described the initiative as a timely and proactive response to emerging threats.
“This collaborative security effort by South-West states is both necessary and strategic. Criminals thrive when security measures are reactive instead of anticipatory,” Owoseni said. He emphasized that the joint operation sends a strong warning to criminal networks that insecurity will not be tolerated, and stressed that intelligence sharing and interstate cooperation are at the core of the strategy.
“By merging intelligence, patrols, and surveillance across state lines, we are disrupting criminal plans before they can be executed. This initiative is not just about visibility—it is about prevention,” he added.
Owoseni also cautioned against the circulation of false or misleading information on social media, warning that anyone attempting to incite panic would face prosecution.
“Spreading misinformation undermines public safety and weakens security operations. Those responsible will be held accountable under the law,” he said, urging residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Femi Haruna, also advised religious organizations to avoid holding events in isolated areas, noting that such gatherings could be vulnerable to attacks. He further warned against the unauthorised use of fireworks, explaining that it could distract security personnel during critical operations.
“Our priority remains the protection of lives and property. The police will continue to operate with diligence and professionalism,” Haruna stated.
Representing the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Mechanised Division, Odogbo Cantonment, Major Adamu Ismaila, described the exercise as historic, marking the first large-scale joint security show of force among South-West states.
“Effective security requires collaboration among agencies and active citizen support. Prompt reporting of suspicious activities ensures swift and decisive action,” he said.
The operation highlighted the use of modern surveillance technology, coordinated patrols, and intelligence-driven policing to deter crime along major highways and within urban centres. Residents across the three states were urged to cooperate with security agencies and report any unusual movements to strengthen public safety.
