ORIIRE SCHOOL ATTACK: Makinde Launches Violent Crime Response Unit, Says Security Must Not Be Taken For Granted
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — GOVERNOR Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has inaugurated the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Nigeria Police Force, describing the initiative as a timely intervention against rising cases of kidnapping and violent crimes across the country.
Speaking on Saturday during the official launch of the unit and the commissioning of its headquarters at the State Police Command Headquarters Eleyele, Ibadan, Governor Makinde said the creation of the specialised tactical squad reflected the determination of both the state government and security agencies to strengthen Oyo State’s security architecture.
Makinde disclosed that discussions with the Commissioner of Police indicated that the VCRU is the first unit of its kind in the South-West region.
According to the governor, the establishment of the unit became even more significant in light of recent security concerns, particularly the reported abduction incident involving children in Orire Local Government Area.
He said the development had caused deep concern among residents and affected families, adding that the government was collaborating with security agencies to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families that have lost their loved ones. May the souls of the departed rest in peace,” Makinde said.
The governor noted that the incident underscored the need for constant vigilance, stressing that security should never be taken for granted.
He maintained that economic growth, investment, tourism and social stability could only thrive in an atmosphere of safety and public confidence.
Makinde stated that his administration had continued to support security agencies through logistics, mobility support, surveillance infrastructure, intelligence sharing and improved inter-agency collaboration.
He described the VCRU as a more professional, intelligent and rapid-response approach to tackling violent crimes, while commending the emphasis placed on accountability, tactical preparedness and respect for human rights.
“I watched the demonstration by the unit and I want to say that you are truly prepared,” the governor stated.
Makinde assured security agencies operating in the state of continued government support in protecting lives and property.
He, however, stressed that security was a collective responsibility, urging residents and community leaders to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.
“From what we know so far about yesterday’s incident in Orire Local Government, there is still a big gap in giving timely information to security agencies. When you see strange movements or suspicious behaviour, please report it,” he said.
The governor also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Oyo State Police Command for the initiative, describing it as a successful collaboration between the Federal Government and sub-national authorities.
“The initiative is federal, but the impact is local,” he added.
Earlier in his address, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, said the establishment of the VCRU aligned with the reform agenda of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at replacing former tactical teams with more accountable, intelligence-driven and professionally trained units.
Olugbenga explained that the VCRU was designed to respond swiftly and effectively to violent crimes and emerging security threats while operating within the framework of human rights and the rule of law.
He disclosed that officers selected into the unit were drawn from various formations across the state based on competence, discipline, integrity and operational experience.
According to him, the officers underwent specialised training in intelligence gathering, tactical operations, weapon handling, crisis response and human rights protection.
The commissioner further revealed that members of the unit had undergone drug screening and mental health evaluations to ensure professionalism and operational fitness.
Olugbenga also announced the inauguration of an independent oversight committee comprising representatives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Human Rights Commission, market associations, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to monitor the activities of the unit and ensure accountability.
He described the newly commissioned VCRU office complex as a symbol of a new phase of tactical policing built on discipline, transparency, operational excellence and community partnership.
The police commissioner charged officers of the unit to remain professional and avoid abuse of power in the discharge of their duties.
“As we move forward, the Oyo State Police Command remains committed to strengthening intelligence-led policing, community partnership, rapid response capability and proactive crime prevention strategies aimed at ensuring that Oyo State remains safe and secure for all residents and investors,” he said.