By Dr. Usman Ololade Bakare
Security is the foundation upon which every meaningful development is built. Without safety, there can be no investment. Without peace, there can be no progress. Without trust in security architecture, communities, investors will live in fear and the future becomes uncertain. As Oyo State gubernatorial aspirant comes 2027, I will be deeply committed to the wellbeing of our people, my foremost responsibility is clear: to secure lives and property, restore public confidence, and build a peaceful Oyo State where every indigenes and residents can thrive without fear.
Oyo state is blessed with resilient and hardworking people from Ibadan to Oyo, Oyo to Ogbomoso, Ogbomoso to Oke-Ogun and Oke-Ogun to Ibarapa. Oyo State is rich in culture, and huge economic potential. However, the rising challenges of insecurity—ranging from kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cultism, and urban crime—threaten our collective progress. These challenges demand leadership that is proactive, strategic, inclusive, and courageous. My security agenda as a cyber security expert is rooted in collaboration, intelligence, technology, and community trust.
A Clear Vision: Security as a Shared Responsibility
Security is not the duty of government alone; it is a shared responsibility involving law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, community groups, civil society, and citizens. Dr Bakare’s security agenda will build a security architecture that emphasizes prevention over reaction, intelligence over force, and partnership over isolation.
We will create a secure environment where farmers in Oke-Ogun zone can go to their farms without fear, traders in Agbeni Market, Ibadan can do business freely, children in Ogbomoso can go to school safely, and investors can operate with confidence. Peace will not be accidental; it will be the result of deliberate policies and sustained commitment.
Strengthening Collaboration with Security Agencies
While security agencies are under federal control, state governments play a critical role in coordination, logistics, intelligence, and welfare support. I will prioritise and expand the establishment of a State Security Coordination Council like “Operation Burst”, bringing together the Police, Armed Forces, Civil Defence, Immigration, Customs, Road Safety, and other relevant agencies for effective synergy.
We will provide logistical support—such as patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, surveillance equipment, and operational facilities—to enhance response capacity. Regular inter-agency briefings and joint operations will ensure rapid response to emerging threats.
Community Policing and Grassroots Intelligence
No security system can succeed without the trust and participation of the people. I will fully embrace community policing as a cornerstone of our security strategy. Traditional rulers, community leaders, youth associations, vigilante groups, and neighborhood watch teams will be properly integrated, trained, and regulated to support formal security agencies.
A structured Community Intelligence Network will be established, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities without fear of intimidation or reprisal. Security is local and begins at the grassroots, and local knowledge is often the most powerful weapon against crime.
Technology-Driven Security Solutions
Modern security challenges require modern solutions. In my security agenda, I will consider deployment of technology-driven security infrastructure to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and crime prevention.
This includes the installation of CCTV cameras at strategic locations across 5 zones in Oyo State and deployment of drones for border and forest surveillance, and establishment of a central command and control center for real-time monitoring and response. Data-driven policing will help identify crime patterns, hotspots, and emerging risks before they escalate.
Tackling Rural Insecurity
Available records showed that insecurity in rural areas has disrupted agriculture, displaced communities, and threatened food security. We will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to kidnapping and banditry, combining intelligence-led operations with community cooperation.
Forest reserves and ungoverned spaces will no longer serve as safe havens for criminals. Dr Bakare will work closely with federal security forces to secure borders, forests, and waterways, while empowering local vigilantes under a regulated framework to complement formal operations.
Urban Safety and Crime Prevention
Urban centers face unique security challenges, including armed robbery, and cybercrime among others. Bakare will consider introduction of urban safety initiatives that combine law enforcement with social interventions.
Improved street lighting, youth engagement programmes, neighborhood patrols, and rapid response units will enhance safety in cities and towns. Safe public spaces encourage economic activities, nightlife, tourism, and social cohesion.
Youth Engagement as a Security Strategy
Unemployed and marginalized youth are often vulnerable to recruitment into criminal networks. Bakare’s security agenda will recognize job creation and empowerment are powerful crime-prevention tools.
Dr Bakare will invest in vocational training, entrepreneurship support, sports development, and creative industries to engage young people productively. Youth will be seen as partners in peacebuilding, not as suspects. When young people have hope, insecurity loses its grip.
Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding
Communal clashes and land disputes have cost lives and undermined unity in many communities. Bakare’s security agenda will prioritize early warning systems and conflict-resolution mechanisms.
Traditional rulers, community elders, and peace committees will be empowered to mediate disputes before they escalate. Dialogue, fairness, and justice will guide our approach to conflict management. Peace is cheaper to maintain than to restore.
Welfare and Motivation of Security Personnel
A motivated security workforce is essential for effective policing. Bakare’s security agenda will support the welfare of security personnel operating in the state by providing decent accommodation, insurance, healthcare support, and recognition for gallantry.
When security officers feel valued and supported, they perform their duties with greater professionalism, dedication, and respect for human rights.
Rule of Law and Human Rights
Security must never come at the expense of justice. Bakare’s security agenda will be committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights. Law enforcement will be firm but fair, professional but humane.
We will strengthen the justice system to ensure swift prosecution of offenders and discourage impunity. Citizens must trust that the law protects them equally, regardless of status or background.
Emergency Response and Disaster Preparedness
Security also includes preparedness for emergencies and disasters. We will strengthen emergency response systems, improve coordination among relevant agencies, and invest in training and equipment for rapid disaster response.
Lives must be protected not only from crime, but also from accidents, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
Building a Culture of Peace and Patriotism
Beyond policies and infrastructure, we will promote a culture of peace, tolerance, and patriotism through education, civic engagement, and public awareness campaigns. Security is sustained when citizens feel a sense of belonging and responsibility toward their communities.
A Promise to the People
To every resident of our state, I make this promise: your safety will be our priority. No mother should fear for her child’s life, no farmer should abandon his land, and no business should close due to insecurity.
This is not just a security plan; it is a commitment to restore hope, confidence, and peace across our state.
Conclusion: Peace as the Pathway to Progress
A secure state is a prosperous state. With strategic leadership, community partnership, modern technology, and commitment, we can overcome insecurity and build a future defined by peace and opportunity.
Together, we will reclaim our streets, secure our communities, protect our investments, and restore our pride. The task is great, but our resolve is greater.
With courage, cooperation, and compassion, we will secure our state and safeguard our future.
Dr. Usman Ololade Bakare is 2027 Oyo APC Gubernatorial Aspirant.
