Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has directed all companies and industries in the state to start registering any foreign workers they employ. He said this step is necessary to improve security and prevent recent security issues.
He gave the order in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area after a security meeting with heads of security agencies.
The governor assured residents that the government is improving security. He explained that authorities are now closely monitoring illegal mining sites, government reserves, and forests to remove criminals hiding in those areas.
He also revealed that about 70 foreigners from Niger Republic, Sudan, and Chad were recently arrested because they could not explain why they were in Ogun State and could not speak English.
He said, “In the last few days, law enforcement agents have arrested about 70 people from Chad and Sudan who cannot explain their reason for being here. We will process them through the Nigeria Immigration Service. We will also work with non-indigene communities to help identify strangers and understand their purpose in the state.”
The governor also raised concerns about scavengers, saying many of them now pose a serious security threat. He said law enforcement agencies will monitor them closely to make sure they are not being used to commit crimes.
Governor Abiodun added that the meeting was necessary because of the rising insecurity in Nigeria. He said Ogun State receives over five million commuters daily, so the government must remain alert.
He instructed police to clear areas like “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode and other similar places where suspected criminals gather. He warned that any property used for criminal activities will be seized by the government.
Speaking about a recent incident at Ajebo in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, he confirmed that security agents had already visited the area and confirmed there was no threat.
He also promised that forest reserves will be better secured to prevent criminals from using them as hideouts.
The governor noted that some scrap dealers and scavengers may now be working with criminal groups, and the government will monitor them closely.
On illegal mining, he said some miners are operating unlawfully and that the government is working with security agencies to remove such persons from mining sites and forests.
Governor Abiodun urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
He said, “Security is everyone’s responsibility. We must report anything unusual and help keep our communities safe.”
He warned traditional rulers (Obas and Baales) not to give out government land to strangers, saying anyone found guilty will face consequences.
The governor thanked security agencies for their cooperation and praised President Bola Tinubu and security officers for rescuing kidnapped victims in Kwara State.
The meeting was held because of increasing insecurity in several parts of Nigeria. Recently, violent attacks in northern states have led to the deaths of at least eight people and the kidnapping of more than 300 people, including schoolchildren.
