Security concerns deepen as lawyers call for immediate overhaul in Oyo

The Ibadan branch of the Nigerian Bar Association has urged Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and security agencies to urgently strengthen the state’s security system in the face of rising criminal activity.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Afe Babalola NBA House in Ibadan ahead of the 2025 Law Week, the branch chairman, Ibrahim Lawal, warned that the state’s once enviable security standards were slipping and required immediate attention.

Lawal noted that Oyo State was previously regarded as one of the safest in the country but said recent events suggested a worrying decline.

He said the government must “re-examine and reinforce” its security arrangements to prevent further deterioration.

His concerns follow the recent abduction of Wale Oriade, an APC chieftain, who was seized by armed men at his office in Ibadan. Witnesses reported that the attackers arrived in a blue Micra vehicle and fled with their victim after a swift operation.

The state government, after its expanded security council meeting on Wednesday chaired by Governor Makinde, had attempted to reassure residents that the protection of lives and property remained a top priority.

Lawal, however, insisted that the state must intensify its efforts, stressing that recent incidents suggest that “no one is safe.”

He also appealed to the state Commissioner of Police to urgently overhaul the security architecture to prevent further attacks.

Also addressing journalists, the Chairman of the Planning Committee for the forthcoming Law Week and former Attorney-General of the state, Oluseun Abimbola (SAN), said the week-long event would offer both professional and social activities for practitioners. Newly admitted lawyers are expected to be formally welcomed during the programme.

The 2025 NBA Ibadan Law Week will run from Friday, 12 December, to Wednesday, 17 December, featuring intellectual sessions, networking opportunities, and social engagements.