By Jabiru Hassan
The Yoruba for Democratic Values (YDV) has reaffirmed that the security of lives and property is a fundamental human right, urging heightened vigilance across Nigeria’s South-West following reports of potential security threats in the region.In a statement released on Sunday, YDV said it aligns with intelligence alerts circulating on social media regarding alleged warnings from American intelligence about possible attacks in some South-West states. The group stressed that such information, whether verified or not, should prompt citizens and security agencies to adopt proactive safety measures.As part of its security warning, Yoruba for Democratic Values called on residents of areas including Sango, Ota, Akera, Alagbado Crossing, Kollington, AIT, Ikola, Ayetoro, Owode, Atan, Ijoko, and Itele to remain vigilant. The group urged residents to report suspicious movements or activities promptly to law enforcement authorities.
YDV also appealed to security agencies to intensify surveillance and patrols across the identified areas, warning that the South-West is increasingly vulnerable to infiltration by criminal elements, including bandits.The group expressed concern over a recent attack by suspected bandits on the old National Park Service (NPS) office in Oloka, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where several staff members were reportedly killed.
According to YDV, the incident underscores the need for stronger, coordinated efforts to combat insecurity in the region.Commending ongoing counterterrorism efforts, YDV praised the Federal Government’s collaboration with the Nigerian military and the United States, which reportedly led to U.S. airstrikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State and subsequent operations against bandit hideouts nationwide. However, the group cautioned that while international cooperation is important, the Federal Government must ensure strict oversight of foreign military involvement to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and minimize collateral damage during operations.YDV further called on the Federal Government to publicly identify and prosecute sponsors of terrorism, arguing that addressing financial and logistical backers of insecurity is critical to achieving lasting peace.
At the state level, the group urged the Ogun State Government to urgently address the abandoned Gateway Hotel premises near the Lagos–Ogun toll gate. It suggested that the facility be repurposed for public use, such as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp, police residential barracks, or another project that would benefit residents and enhance security.In addition, YDV called for a comprehensive audit of abandoned properties—both public and private—across South-West states, warning that such locations often become safe havens for criminals and terrorist groups if left unsecured.
The group also raised alarm over what it described as the emergence of unauthorized settlements in Yoruba communities, citing the alleged takeover of forest land in Ejiba Town, Yagba (Okunland), Kogi State, by suspected Fulani settlers. YDV warned that such developments could trigger communal conflicts if not addressed promptly by authorities. Highlighting a broader pattern, YDV noted that recent land occupations in parts of Kwara, Kogi, Ekiti, Yewa (bordering the Republic of Benin), and Oke-Ogun are all located within approximately 300 kilometers of Lagos, describing the trend as “strategic and concerning.”
The group reiterated its support for the establishment of state police, urging swift constitutional action to make it a reality. It also advocated for community-based policing and local vigilante structures coordinated by local governments, noting that local government financial autonomy could enhance funding and effectiveness.YDV concluded by reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law, stressing that sustainable security requires collective responsibility from government, institutions, and citizens.
