The Executive Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Abdulazeez Yakub, has commended the Federal and Kwara State governments for establishing an Army battalion in Omu-Aran, pledging the council’s full cooperation and support for its operations.
Yakub, who spoke during the formal reception of the troops in Omu-Aran, said the local government was prepared to support the Nigerian Army in carrying out its mandate to protect lives and property and maintain peace in the area.
“On behalf of the people of Irepodun Local Government, I assure you of our full cooperation and support as you carry out your duties.
“Once again, welcome to Irepodun Local Government. We are delighted to have you here,” he said.
The Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti, Agboluaje, Olomu Efon II, said traditional rulers and communities across Kwara State welcomed the deployment, describing it as an important step towards strengthening security in Kwara South.
Oba Adeoti spoke on Tuesday while receiving the troops at the football pitch of Omu-Aran High School.
The traditional ruler expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the deployment of the battalion to Omu-Aran, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government and a major community in Kwara South.
He said the presence of the troops would help strengthen security in Omu-Aran and neighbouring communities, including Oko, Aran-Orin, Ipetu-Igbomina, Arandun and Rore.
Welcoming the Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. Nicholas Rume, and the Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Kehinde Avoseh, Oba Adeoti assured the military of the community’s support and cooperation.
“I want to assure you of our support, especially in terms of the welfare of the battalion. Our support will be one hundred per cent, by the grace of God. You will enjoy your stay and operation in Omu-Aran and environs.
“All of us will, by the grace of God, be part of the battalion and support its operations here,” he said.
The monarch also thanked Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on behalf of traditional rulers in Irepodun Local Government, describing the deployment as a welcome development for Kwara South.
Also speaking, the President of the Omu-Aran Development Association, Prince Niyi Adeyeye, described the establishment of the military formation as a significant step towards restoring peace and security in Omu-Aran and Kwara South.
Adeyeye said the deployment demonstrated the Federal Government’s response to growing security concerns in parts of the state.
“It is no longer news that our dear state, particularly parts of Kwara South, has experienced serious security challenges in recent times,” he said.
According to him, the security situation had resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, disruption of livelihoods and a decline in economic activity, creating fear and anxiety among residents and posing challenges to the development of local communities.
He commended security agencies, local vigilantes and community security volunteers for their courage and sacrifices in protecting residents.
Adeyeye said the deployment was a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and property while restoring peace, public confidence and economic stability to affected communities.
Responding, the Commander of 22 Armoured Brigade, Brig. Gen. Nicholas Rume, thanked the people of Omu-Aran for the warm reception accorded the officers and soldiers.
Rume said the deployment formed part of the Federal Government’s directive to expand the Nigerian Army’s operational capacity across the country.
He added that the Chief of Army Staff had deployed the battalion to strengthen security and tackle criminal activities in Kwara State as part of the Army’s broader operational strategy.
“We also believe that the efforts of the Nigerian Army, under the direction of the Chief of Army Staff, have reduced some of the security incidents we have been experiencing in this part of Kwara.
“The deployment of this battalion will further stabilise the area and enhance peace and security,” he said.
In his vote of thanks on behalf of the community, the Esinkin Olomu of Omu-Aran, retired Maj. Gen. Lasisi Yemi Abidoye, thanked the Federal and Kwara State governments for approving Omu-Aran as the location of the battalion.
Abidoye said the people of Omu-Aran and the wider Kwara South Senatorial District would justify the confidence placed in them by supporting the troops and their operations.
He commended Brig. Gen. Rume for leading the troops to Omu-Aran and said the high morale of the soldiers was evident from their conduct during the reception.
The retired general urged the Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Kehinde Avoseh, to ensure that personnel adhered strictly to the military’s rules of engagement in their dealings with residents.
He assured the officers and soldiers that they would receive the cooperation of the community during their stay.
Abidoye also thanked the traditional rulers, community leaders and residents who attended the reception, particularly the women who had waited from 8 a.m. until the arrival of the troops.
The deployment is expected to strengthen security operations in Omu-Aran and surrounding communities in Kwara South.
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