DIG Fayoade Begins Southwest Security Tour in Oyo, Deploys Technology to Rescue Abducted Pupils

The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the Southwest geopolitical zone, DIG Adegoke Fayoade, mni, has commenced his official security assessment tour of the Southwest with strategic engagements in Ibadan, Oyo State, aimed at strengthening inter-agency collaboration and enhancing policing effectiveness across the region.

The tour began with courtesy visits to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, where discussions focused on deepening partnerships between the Nigeria Police Force, government institutions, traditional authorities, and local communities in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.

During his meeting with Governor Makinde, DIG Fayoade commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support for security agencies and stressed the need for intelligence sharing, community policing, and stronger inter-agency cooperation in tackling emerging security threats across the Southwest.
He noted that sustained collaboration among stakeholders remains critical to preserving the relative peace and stability currently enjoyed in Oyo State and the wider region.

At the Olubadan’s Palace, the DIG acknowledged the vital role of traditional institutions in grassroots security, conflict resolution, and community engagement. In his response, Oba Ladoja praised the Nigeria Police Force for its efforts in maintaining law and order and pledged continued support toward ensuring a safer Ibadanland and Southwest region.

As part of the tour, DIG Fayoade also visited the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters, where he addressed senior officers, rank-and-file personnel, and stakeholders during a strategic lecture on professionalism, discipline, intelligence-led policing, and effective service delivery.

Speaking during the engagement, the DIG assured residents of Oyo State that the Nigeria Police Force is deploying advanced technology and technical expertise to secure the release of pupils and teachers recently abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, ongoing rescue efforts are already yielding positive results, with the police committed to ensuring the victims are rescued safely and without collateral damage.

“I can assure you that technology is already being deployed in the rescue operation. It is only a matter of time before the abducted pupils and teachers are reunited with their families. Our priority is to bring them back alive, hale and hearty,” he said.

DIG Fayoade disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, had directed all Deputy Inspectors-General to embark on nationwide sensitisation and operational assessment tours aimed at engaging officers, strengthening operational efficiency, and boosting public confidence in policing.

Describing technology as the backbone of modern policing, the DIG said the Force has continued to leverage digital tools, intelligence-gathering systems, and technical expertise in combating crime and enhancing public safety.

“Whatever crime that comes up, we deploy our technical experts and available technology to ensure such crimes are resolved within the shortest possible time. Technology remains indispensable in modern policing,” he said.

He further urged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical commanders to uphold professionalism, transparency, and quality service delivery, warning against actions capable of eroding public trust.

“The only way to build trust is through sincerity, objectivity, prompt response to complaints, and quality policing services. Stay away from perverting justice. Make yourselves available whenever there is a problem and move swiftly to serve the public,” he charged.

The DIG added that maintaining cordial relationships with members of the public would encourage the flow of credible intelligence needed to combat crime and other social vices threatening national security.

Addressing stakeholders at the event, DIG Fayoade called for sustained vigilance and stronger community support for security agencies, stressing that public participation remains crucial in the fight against criminality.

“The Southwest must remain safe and secure. We will continue to deal decisively with all forms of crime and criminality, but we need the support of the people through timely and credible information,” he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Olugbenga Ayodeji Abimbola, welcomed the DIG and expressed confidence that the visit would further enhance the operational capacity of officers through strategic engagements, knowledge-sharing sessions, and professional interactions organised during the tour.

CP Abimbola also commended the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, noting that his transformational vision continues to inspire professionalism, discipline, innovation, and operational excellence within the Force.

DIG Fayoade’s Southwest tour is expected to take him across the six states in the region as he evaluates operational activities, engages critical stakeholders, and strengthens institutional partnerships aimed at improving security outcomes and effective policing.

The Ibadan engagements have set a positive tone for the tour, underscoring the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to proactive policing, technological innovation, strategic collaboration, and community-driven security solutions across the Southwest.