A delegation from the Office of the Chief of Army Staff on Monday visited Omu-Aran in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State ahead of the deployment of a Nigerian Army battalion recently approved by President Bola Tinubu to strengthen security in Kwara South.
The visit marks the commencement of the Federal Government’s plan to establish a permanent military presence in the region to combat banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The delegation, led by Major General O.D. Williams, was received at the palace of the Olomu of Omu-Aran by members of the Olomu-in-Council on behalf of the monarch, Oba AbdulRaheem Oladele Adeoti.
Speaking during the visit, Williams said the deployment underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.
He conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff for the warm reception accorded the delegation and assured residents that the military was prepared to commence operations immediately.
Welcoming the delegation, the Essa Omu, High Chief Adekunle AbdulRasaq Oyinloye, described the approval of the battalion as a major milestone for Kwara South.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the military formation and commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, retired Major General Lasisi Yemi Abidoye, the Omu-Aran Development Association, the Olomu-in-Council and other stakeholders for their roles in facilitating the deployment.
Also speaking, retired Major General Abidoye said the establishment of the battalion would significantly improve security across Kwara South and help curb criminal activities in the area.
He also thanked the community for providing temporary accommodation for the soldiers pending the completion of a permanent barracks.
The National Secretary of the Omu-Aran Development Association, Elder Ranti Adedayo, said the military presence would enhance security in Omu-Aran and neighbouring communities, including Eruku, Idofian and Oro-Ago.
The Olomu-in-Council and the Omu-Aran Development Association urged residents to cooperate with the military personnel to ensure the success of the security initiative.
The visit ended with the presentation of gifts to the delegation by the Asanlu Omu, High Chief Oyedepo, in the presence of other traditional chiefs.
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