The traditional ruler of Iwoye-Ketu in Ogun State, Oba Isaac Oyero, has condemned the recent attack on operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service at Akokoro village, which left two officers injured, and called for a thorough investigation.
In a statement on Sunday, the monarch decried the severe lack of security in the border community, stating that over 25,000 residents are served by only three poorly equipped police officers.
Oyero described the attack as “barbaric and unacceptable,” saying, “The allegation that a 12-tyre truck was transporting illicit drugs through our area is shocking and alien to the history and character of Iwoye-Ketu.”
He noted that the community has long suffered from criminal activities, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks by armed herders. “For decades, the people of Iwoye-Ketu have repeatedly called on governments at all levels to strengthen security presence in our area,” he stated.
The monarch highlighted the acute security vacuum, revealing that much of the stability in the area is provided by police from the Republic of Benin stationed on their side of the border. “Ironically, much of the security stability presently enjoyed in some parts of the area is due to the well-equipped Beninese police force… rather than within Nigeria itself,” he said.
He explained that vast border spaces, abandoned farmlands, and forest reserves have become hideouts for criminal elements due to under-policing. “The nearest Nigerian security response point is in Imeko, about 20 kilometres away, while some affected border areas are much farther and practically unreachable during emergencies,” Oyero added.
The royal father appealed to the Federal Government to urgently establish a fully equipped security base in Iwoye-Ketu to protect residents and strengthen border security. He reaffirmed the community’s commitment to working with lawful security agencies, stating, “Iwoye-Ketu remains a peaceful, law-abiding and patriotic community.”
