A delegation from the Office of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), on Monday visited Omu-Aran, Kwara State, ahead of the deployment of a Nigerian Army battalion approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen security in Kwara South.
The visit signals the commencement of the Federal Government’s plan to establish a permanent military presence in the region as part of efforts to curb 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, His Royal Majesty, Oba AbdulRaheem Oladele Adeoti, FNTP, Agboluaje Olomu Efon II
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Williams thanked the people of Omu-Aran for the warm reception accorded to the delegation.
He assured the community that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to ending the menace of banditry and kidnapping across the country.
According to him, the military personnel are ready to commence operations immediately.
Welcoming the delegation, the Essa Omu, High Chief Adekunle AbdulRasaq Oyinloye, described the deployment as a landmark achievement for Kwara South.
He thanked President Tinubu for approving the battalion and commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Esinkin Olomu, retired Major General Lasisi Yemi Abidoye, the Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA), the Olomu-in-Council, and other stakeholders for their roles in securing the military formation.
Also speaking, the Esinkin Olomu, retired Major General Lasisi Yemi Abidoye, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for their commitment to the security of lives and property.
He expressed confidence that the deployment of the Army battalion would significantly improve security in Kwara South, adding that insecurity in the region would soon become a thing of the past.
He also appreciated the community for providing a befitting temporary accommodation for the military personnel pending the completion of the permanent barracks.
Representing the Omu-Aran Development Association, the National Secretary, Elder Ranti Adedayo, said the Army’s presence would enhance security in Omu-Aran and neighbouring communities, including Eruku, Idofian, Oro-Ago and other parts of Kwara South.
The Olomu-in-Council and the Omu-Aran Development Association appealed to residents to cooperate fully with the military personnel, expressing confidence that the deployment would strengthen security and restore lasting peace across Kwara South.
The Asanlu Omu, High Chief Oyedepo, later presented gifts to the military delegation.
Other traditional chiefs present at the reception includes the Odofin Aran, High Chief Olusola Olaniyan; the Petu Omu, High Chief Festus Awoniyi; and the Edemon Omu, High Chief Samuel Atolagbe.
