In a bold move to tackle the rising tide of crime, security chiefs, government officials, community leaders, and traditional rulers have come together for a landmark summit in Owo, Ondo State. The event, which took place at Achievers University, Owo, was convened by the Chairman of Owo Local Government, Mr. Tope Omolayo, and brought together key figures from all walks of life to find lasting solutions to the wave of kidnappings, killings, and violent crimes shaking the area.
The summit was a rare gathering of top minds and hands-on stakeholders in security and community development. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, sent their strong support through the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Security, Mr. Olubenga Atiba.
The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegeshin Ogunoye III, who is also the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, led a powerful delegation of royal fathers. Also present were representatives from the Army, Police, Civil Defence, Amotekun Corps, and the State Security Service (SSS).
Why Was the Summit Needed?
The people of Owo and its surroundings have been living in fear due to increasing crime. The summit’s organizers knew that only a united, community-driven response could turn the tide.
A communiqué read by Mr. Olatunbosun Oladimeji (spokesperson) and Mr. Gbenga Olumolawa (committee chairman) pointed out the main reasons behind the rising insecurity:
High unemployment among young people
Owo’s location between two big regions—Kabba (North Central) and Benin City (South-South)
Weak punishment for criminals
Rivalry among security agencies
Failure of social institutions
Influx of strangers who are not properly checked
Large, unmonitored forests that criminals use as hideouts
What Are the Solutions?
The summit agreed on several strong steps to fight crime:
Set up a well-funded security task force
Improve teamwork among all security agencies
Government should act fast to create jobs for young people
Traditional rulers should stop selling land to people without proper checks
Use both modern and traditional ways to fight crime
Keep talking and working together to solve the problem
“There should be continuous engagement and a multi-faceted approach to resolving the crisis,” the communiqué stated.
Government Action: Tougher Laws Against Kidnapping
At the same time, the Ondo State Government announced a new bill that would make kidnapping punishable by death. Mr. Olukayode Ajulo, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, explained:
“This law is meant to stop violent crime and make our state safer for everyone.”
This summit is more than just a meeting—it is a new beginning for Owo and Ondo State. Community members are being called to work hand-in-hand with their leaders and security agencies to protect their homes and families.
The message is clear: crime can only be defeated when everyone plays their part.
Looking Ahead
The summit has set the stage for real change. If the recommendations are followed, Owo could become a model for how communities can fight crime and build a safer, more prosperous future.
The people of Owo are ready to take back their streets—and with the support of their leaders, they are more determined than ever to succeed.
Quote to Remember:
“There should be continuous engagement and a multi-faceted approach to resolving the crisis.”
— Owo Security Summit Communiqué
In Summary:
The Owo Security Summit is a powerful example of what can happen when a community stands together. With strong leadership, smart solutions, and the courage to act, Owo is showing the way forward for all of Nigeria.
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