Being the Remarks by His Excellency Seyi Makinde, FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State at the Inauguration and Office Commissioning of the Violent Crimes Response Unit in Oyo State on Saturday, 16 May 2026
Today’s inauguration and commissioning of the Violent Crimes Response Unit by the Oyo State Police Command is both timely and necessary. It reflects our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Oyo State and ensure that our people continue to live, work and raise their families in peace.
In recent weeks, we have witnessed disturbing incidents of kidnapping and violent crimes across parts of our country, including the painful abduction involving children in Oriire Local Government Area that has deeply troubled many families and communities. We are working with security agencies to get clarity on what happened. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families that have lost their loved ones. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
These incidents remind us that security cannot be taken for granted, and that government must remain proactive, vigilant and responsive at all times.
As a government, we understand that economic growth, investment, tourism and social stability can only thrive where there is safety and public confidence. That is why we have continued to support security agencies through logistics, mobility support, surveillance infrastructure, intelligence collaboration, and improved inter-agency cooperation across Oyo State.
The establishment of this specialised Violent Crimes Response Unit is therefore a welcome development. It represents a more intelligence-driven, professional and rapid-response approach to tackling violent crimes. I am particularly encouraged by the emphasis on professionalism, tactical preparedness, accountability and respect for human rights in the operations of this Unit.
Let me assure the Nigeria Police Force and all security agencies operating in Oyo State that this administration will continue to provide the necessary support required to strengthen our collective capacity to protect lives and property.
Security is not the responsibility of government alone. It is a shared duty. We must continue to encourage citizens to remain vigilant, share timely information with security agencies, and work together to isolate criminal elements wherever they may be.
On behalf of the Government and the good people of Oyo State, I commend the Inspector-General of Police and the Oyo State Command for this initiative. I also salute the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way daily to keep our State safe.
May this Unit succeed in its mandate, and may peace, safety and stability continue to prevail in Oyo State and indeed Nigeria.
Thank you, and God bless Oyo State.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Seyi Makinde
16 May 2026