A high-level stakeholders’ security meeting has been convened in Ijebu North East Local Government Area as authorities intensify efforts to address growing concerns over kidnapping and community safety.

The meeting, held at the council secretariat in Atan, brought together key security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, alongside local vigilante groups.

Also in attendance were traditional rulers, community leaders, representatives of Hausa and Igbo communities, members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Muslim groups, and the Farmers Association.

With the theme “Strengthening Security Through Collective Responsibility,” the forum provided a platform for stakeholders to examine the root causes of rising insecurity and propose actionable solutions.

In his opening remarks, the council chairman, Hon. Badejo, expressed concern over recent kidnapping incidents, particularly those targeting farmers. He noted that the trend has created fear among residents and reiterated that the local government would not serve as a safe haven for criminal elements.

He explained that the meeting was convened to develop practical strategies to restore public confidence and enhance safety across the area.

Deliberations featured contributions from farmers, hunters, community development associations, and religious bodies, all of whom shared insights and recommendations on tackling insecurity at the grassroots level.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Ijebu North Local Government Area, Bolaji Odusanya, commended the initiative and stressed the need for stronger collaboration among neighboring councils, particularly given their shared borders.

He called for improved synergy between communities and security agencies, urging thorough investigation and prosecution of criminal activities to ensure lasting peace.

Member of the House of Representatives, Femi Ogunbanwo, who represents Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North East Federal Constituency, described insecurity as a national challenge already receiving attention at the federal level. He assured stakeholders of his commitment to supporting security agencies and local initiatives aimed at addressing the situation.

At the end of the meeting, stakeholders adopted key resolutions to strengthen security measures within the local government. These include the profiling of cattle rearers, a ban on underage individuals rearing cattle independently, and restrictions on cattle movement between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Hotel operators were also directed to register with security agencies and maintain proper documentation of guests as part of broader efforts to improve surveillance and intelligence gathering.

Following the general session, a closed-door technical meeting involving security chiefs and select stakeholders was held to further strategize on implementation and operational coordination.

The meeting signals a renewed commitment by authorities and residents of Ijebu North East to collectively confront insecurity and safeguard lives and property.