In the wake of rising national concerns over banditry, terrorism, and cross-border criminal infiltration, Ogun State has once again relied on the steady leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, who has emerged as one of Nigeria’s few subnational leaders demonstrating clarity, restraint, and strategic foresight in turbulent times.

Addressing journalists after a high-level security meeting in Iperu, Governor Abiodun announced the implementation of a comprehensive security protocol, starting with the mandatory documentation of all foreign nationals working with multinational companies in the state. This measure, long overdue at the national level, underscores his administration’s proactive approach to anticipating and neutralizing threats.

In recent days, security operatives arrested around 70 foreigners from Niger Republic, Sudan, and Chad who could not explain their presence or provide valid documentation. Many were unable to communicate in English and are now being processed by the Nigeria Immigration Service to determine their status.

Governor Abiodun emphasized that Ogun, as Nigeria’s industrial hub and a daily destination for millions of commuters, cannot afford laxity. He directed that all first-time non-indigenes entering the state be screened by community leaders to verify their means of livelihood and reasons for relocation. “This is not an attempt to criminalize migration but a necessary step to protect the peace and prosperity the state has built over the years,” he said.

Abiodun’s leadership was further highlighted in Ogun’s response to recent AI-generated threat videos that had unsettled parts of the public. While many states struggled with the implications of synthetic media, Ogun deployed its cybercrime unit to investigate viral footage of a masked pseudo-militant issuing threats to communities and schools. Investigators confirmed that the figure was entirely digital—a near-perfect AI-generated phantom—recycled from an older clip targeted at a different region months earlier. The state’s measured response prevented mass panic and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from both physical and psychological threats.

The security meeting also addressed potential misuse of legitimate professions. Abiodun highlighted that scavengers and scrap dealers were being monitored due to intelligence suggesting some could be exploited for criminal intelligence gathering. Law enforcement was instructed to engage with associations while ensuring no cluster becomes a cover for unlawful activity. He also ordered the clearing of enclaves like “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode, warning that properties used for criminal operations would now be liable for forfeiture.

Furthermore, forest reserves and mining sites, historically known as hideouts for kidnappers and illegal miners, are now under heightened surveillance. Abiodun emphasized that illegal mining will no longer be tolerated and warned traditional rulers against allocating government land to unknown persons without clearance, citing accountability measures for violations.

Throughout these events—ranging from arrests to combating digital misinformation—Governor Abiodun maintained a calm but assertive approach. He urged residents to support security agencies through vigilance, reporting suspicious activities, and participating actively in community policing. He also commended the synergy among security agencies and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for stabilizing the national environment and supporting joint rescue operations in recent kidnap cases in Niger and Kwara states.

Governor Abiodun’s approach demonstrates an understanding of evolving security threats, showing that protecting citizens involves safeguarding them not just from danger, but also from the illusion of danger. His blend of foresight, firm directives, and deliberate calm continues to position Ogun State as a model of responsible governance, especially in an era where fear can be manufactured and spread in seconds.

Under his leadership, Ogun is reinforcing its security architecture, strengthening community vigilance, and adapting to new challenges with a composure many other states can only aspire to emulate.