By The Metro 
Against the backdrop of security concerns, including incidents of kidnapping reported in parts of Akoko South West and neighbouring communities, the Executive Chairman of Akoko South West Local Government, Hon. Ayo Ajana, on Tuesday convened a landmark Security Summit to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and reinforce measures for protecting lives and property in Akoko South West Local Government Area.
The summit, themed “Managing Security and Security Challenges in Akoko South West Local Government”, was held at the Oka Town Hall and brought together traditional rulers, security agencies, retired security professionals, academics, political leaders, community stakeholders and development partners to deliberate on practical and sustainable strategies for addressing security challenges through collective action.
In his welcome address, Hon. Ayo Ajana expressed concern over the impact of insecurity on farming, commerce, education, and the socio-economic wellbeing of residents of Akoko South West. He noted that while the Federal and Ondo State Governments have continued to implement various security initiatives, including the establishment of Forest Guards, the strengthening of the Amotekun Corps, and ongoing advocacy for the creation of State Police, lasting security also requires the active participation of communities.
The Chairman observed that criminal elements often operate from within communities, making vigilance, intelligence sharing, and cooperation with security agencies indispensable to preventing crime and protecting lives and property. He stressed that effective security depends on shared responsibility and sustained collaboration between government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and residents.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility. We must complement the efforts of government and security agencies by remaining vigilant, sharing timely information, and strengthening community-based security arrangements. The safety of our people depends on our collective resolve,” Hon. Ayo Ajana stated.
He therefore urged residents of Akoko South West Local Government Area to remain security conscious, strengthen local security networks, and continue supporting lawful efforts aimed at safeguarding their communities.
The summit featured a keynote address and technical paper presentations by security experts and scholars who shared practical strategies for strengthening community security and addressing emerging threats. Resource persons included ACP Barr. Omojola (Rtd.), Mr. Emmanuel D. Owolabi, retired Director of the DSS, Dr. Felix O. Aranuwa of the Department of Informatics and Information, AAUA, and Ambassador Ariyo, Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Ondo State.
The speakers collectively emphasised intelligence sharing, stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies, community engagement, technological innovation, and grassroots vigilance as essential tools for preventing crime and sustaining peace across the local government. They also stressed the importance of public awareness, early warning systems, and stronger partnerships among stakeholders in addressing emerging security challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, the Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, commended Hon. Ayo Ajana for convening the summit, describing it as a commendable demonstration of proactive leadership. The revered monarch also praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his approach towards improving security across Ondo State and supporting collaborative security initiatives.
The monarch further disclosed that traditional rulers and community elders in Akoko South West and Akoko in general have continued to adopt grassroots security measures and strengthen cooperation with security agencies to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities. He expressed the commitment of the traditional institution to protecting lives and property while encouraging residents to remain vigilant and support community-based security efforts.
Hon. Ayo Ajana expressed profound appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his dedication to security under the EASE Agenda, noting that the administration’s investments and support for security initiatives continue to strengthen efforts aimed at maintaining peace and public safety across Ondo State. He also commended the Planning Committee, led by High Chief Matthew Ofosola, the Asemoloye of Iboje-Oka, for its dedication to the successful organisation of the summit.
The summit attracted an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including Hon. Sakara Theo, Vice Chairman of the local government, the LCDA Chairman, Hon. Ayo John Emmanuel, HRM Oba Adebori Adeleye, OON, the Olubaka of Oka Akoko, and the Alale of Akungba-Akoko, HRM Oba Oseni Isiaka Adu.
Other attendees included HRM Oba Stephen Oloruntele Ogunoye I, the Olusin of Owalusin, Iwaro Oka Akoko, the Asin of Oka Odo Iwaro Oka Akoko, HRM Oba Sir Pius Omiyejola Akande, HRM Regent Fatimoh Aderonke Adegoroye, Regent of Oba-Akoko, HRM Regent Adebukunola Adedayo Adedeji, Regent of Supare-Akoko, and HRM Princess Bolanle Deborah Jacob, Regent of Ikun Akoko (represented).
Also in attendance were the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Olumide Sidiku, and the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Ahmed Giwa, councillors, HOLGA, the APC Chairman in Akoko South West, Hon. Agbede Sunday, supervisory councillors, special advisers and special assistants to the Chairman.
The summit concluded with participants expressing their collective commitment to strengthening collaboration among government, traditional institutions, security agencies, and local communities through sustained dialogue, intelligence sharing, and community participation. They expressed confidence that the resolutions reached at the summit would further enhance security, preserve peace, and promote sustainable development across Akoko South West Local Government.
Momoh Jawad Oladeji
Media Aide to Hon. Ayo Ajana
Executive Chairman, Akoko South West Local Government Area
July 8, 2026