The Osun State Government has approved the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force to strengthen security operations and enhance the state’s response to emerging threats following recent security alerts.

The decision was disclosed in a statement issued and signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, in Osogbo on Thursday.

According to the statement, the state government also reaffirmed its readiness to provide the necessary logistics and support required to strengthen the protection of lives and property across the state.

The decision was reached during a State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Ademola Adeleke and presided over by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi.

The meeting was attended by the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Mr Ibrahim Zungura, alongside other heads and commanders of security agencies in the state.

While opening the meeting, Adewusi conveyed the governor’s goodwill to the security commanders and commended them for their commitment during recent security challenges.

He urged them to remain vigilant and intensify their efforts in view of the fresh security threats confronting the state.

The Deputy Governor was accompanied by the Attorney-General of the state, Hon. Wole Jimi-Bada; Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina; and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Mr Samuel Ojo.

Adewusi assured the security commanders that the state government remained committed to further empowering security agencies to effectively protect residents.

He also called on traditional rulers across the state to sustain their local security oversight and continue supporting security agencies with relevant information.

The Security Council, during its deliberations, also sought to allay the fears of residents, assuring them that Osun State remains safe and secure.

However, residents were urged to remain vigilant, particularly around churches, mosques, schools and other public places, while stakeholders were advised to strengthen security measures around their premises.

The Council further appealed to members of the public to promptly share credible intelligence with security agencies to help prevent possible attacks by suspected terrorists and bandits.

The Nigeria Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, was also directed to maintain a 24-hour red alert in response to the reported threats.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice, Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services (DSS) agreed to strengthen collaboration to ensure that suspects arrested in connection with security-related offences are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted without unnecessary delay.

The meeting ended with a commendation for the new Commissioner of Police, Mr Ibrahim Zungura, for introducing policing reforms since assuming office and for personally attending the security meeting.