Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Wednesday authorized the urgent purchase of two planes in order to combat the threat of illegal mining, kidnapping, and other security issues, especially in the state’s expansive hinterlands.
This was revealed following the Executive Council meeting by Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information. He claimed that the government’s increased resolve to further safeguard the state against the influx of bandits and their activities was the reason behind the approval of the aircraft purchase.
According to the Commissioner, the Council observed that while Oyo State is relatively peaceful in comparison to other federation states, the government would not be complacent because there are still isolated incidents of banditry and kidnapping taking place in the state.
Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, such as the two light DA 42 MNG models, are outfitted with advanced surveillance devices that can detect targets at both low and high altitudes. The Commissioner clarified that these aircraft are preferred over helicopters because they require less maintenance, spare parts are readily available, and the Nigerian Air Force already has a number of them, allowing for synergy.
He pointed out that Oyo State, with a land extent of approximately 28,454 square kilometers, has the largest landmass in southern Nigeria and is larger than a few African nations. The two planes, which would cost N7,763,360,000, will help Amotekun and other state security services track down and kill outlaws in their hiding places.
“Amotekun in Oyo State has the most personnel (2,500) and the most vehicles (181) and motorcycles (450) of any South West Security Network,” Oyelade continued.
He added that the lowest-paid Amotekun officials in Oyo State made 116,000 Naira per month, which to him was very fair.
“The Council also approved the construction of bridges, interchanges, and the clearance of the northeast and southwest segments of the 110km Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project, particularly from the Molarere, Odo-Oba, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University axis, at a total cost of 83,037,000,000″ He said.
By 2027, when this administration comes to a conclusion, the Council promised that 72 kilometers of the Circular Road would be finished.
