Ogun Governor Orders Registration of Foreign Workers Amid Rising Security Concerns

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has directed all industries and companies operating in the state to register foreigners in their employ as part of strengthened security measures.

The directive came on Monday in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area, following a strategic security meeting with heads of security agencies in the state. Governor Abiodun said the move aims to enhance documentation and monitor foreign nationals to prevent security breaches.

Arrests and Heightened Vigilance

The governor revealed that about 70 foreigners, primarily from Niger, Sudan, and Chad, had recently been arrested for failing to provide satisfactory explanations for their presence in Ogun. He noted that these individuals would be processed with the Nigeria Immigration Service.

Abiodun also highlighted the threat posed by scavengers and scrap dealers, warning that law enforcement agencies would monitor and engage them to prevent their use in criminal activities.

“We must work with security agencies. We must report anything suspicious so law enforcement can respond promptly. Security is not the responsibility of security agents alone,” he said.

Illegal Mining and Forest Security

On illegal mining, the governor stated that some miners operated as miscreants, and the government was collaborating with security agencies to clear out criminals from mining sites and forest reserves. He also assured that the state’s forests and game reserves would be secured to prevent them from being used as criminal hideouts.

Other Measures and Appeals

Governor Abiodun called on residents to support community policing efforts and urged Obas and Baales not to allocate government land to strangers, warning that traditional rulers found culpable would be held accountable.

He commended security agencies for their cooperation and synergy, noting their contribution to the relative peace currently enjoyed in Ogun State. The governor also praised President Bola Tinubu and federal security agencies for the prompt rescue of kidnapped victims in Kwara State.

The meeting reflects heightened vigilance amid escalating insecurity across northern Nigeria, where recent attacks in Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, and Borno states have resulted in multiple deaths and the abduction of over 300 people, including schoolchildren.