Gov. Aiyedatiwa Orders Statewide Security Patrols After Ipele Station Attack
Gov. Aiyedatiwa
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed security agencies to intensify round-the-clock patrols across all communities and forest areas following a daring New Year’s Eve attack on the divisional police station in Ipele, Owo Local Government Area.
The incident occurred late on December 31, 2025, as residents attended crossover night services to welcome 2026.
Suspected bandits, reportedly numbering around 30 and riding motorcycles, stormed the Ipele Police Station, firing sporadically and detonating explosives that damaged the facility and destroyed exhibits.
No lives were lost in the attack. All police officers on duty survived unharmed and quickly rejoined reinforcement teams to secure the area and prevent further escalation.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who immediately contacted the State Commissioner of Police and the Brigade Commander of the Nigerian Army upon receiving reports of the incident, convened an emergency security meeting on January 1, 2026, with heads of the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Amotekun Corps.
Speaking after the meeting at the Government House in Akure, the governor commended the swift response of security operatives, including the Joint Operations Task Force and Amotekun Rangers, whose ongoing patrols helped contain the situation.
He emphasised that security is a 24-hour responsibility, especially during festive periods, and vowed that the perpetrators would be apprehended and brought to justice.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal described the attack as a “tragic and reprehensible act” but reassured residents that the state remains one of the safest in Southern Nigeria.
He urged the public to stay calm, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The government has assured citizens of Ipele and across Ondo State of their safety, with enhanced measures now in place to forestall any recurrence.
