The Commandant of the Ondo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oluyemi Ibiloye, has expressed grave concerns over the surging insecurity in Ondo State and across the South-West, citing asymmetric warfare, intelligence failures, and local collusion with criminal elements as fundamental issues. Speaking in a recent interview, Ibiloye emphasized that the evolving security landscape in Nigeria has witnessed a notable shift from traditional armed robbery to more sophisticated crimes, such as kidnapping for ransom.
Ibiloye explained that criminal organizations are quickly adapting their strategies, making it increasingly challenging for conventional security measures to remain effective. Kidnapping has become a lucrative business for many gangs, replacing older forms of violent crime,” he noted, highlighting the urgent need for security forces to develop innovative approaches while enhancing intelligence-gathering efforts and fostering partnerships with local communities.
The commandant further revealed that many successful kidnapping operations are bolstered by support from individuals within the very communities that are affected. Investigations have uncovered instances where local residents have provided vital information on potential victims, supplied food and logistics to criminals hiding in the bush, and aided in the execution of their plans.
Highlighting the proactive measures being taken, Ibiloye stated that the NSCDC has made significant arrests related to these collaborative efforts with criminal networks. He confirmed ongoing partnerships with traditional rulers, community vigilantes, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, and the Nigerian Army, all aimed at enhancing intelligence sharing and bolstering security operations throughout Ondo State.
Ibiloye urged community members to be vigilant and relay timely, credible information to security agencies, noting the inherent limitations in personnel deployment. “Security forces cannot be present everywhere at all times,” he said, asserting that community engagement is a crucial element in preventing crime and dismantling criminal enterprises before they can strike.
On the contentious issue of state policing, Ibiloye personally endorsed the concept, asserting that localized law enforcement could significantly improve intelligence-gathering, as officers with intimate knowledge of their neighborhoods are better equipped to understand local dynamics. He pointed to the effective collaboration between the NSCDC and the Amotekun Corps as a success story in utilizing local intelligence to address security challenges in Ondo State.
Responding to calls for permitting civilians to carry firearms, the NSCDC commandant expressed caution, underscoring that firearms necessitate extensive training and strict protocols. He warned that broader civilian gun ownership could lead to tragic misuse and amplified violence.
Ibiloye also highlighted the importance of technology in contemporary security measures. The NSCDC has integrated digital surveillance tools, including CCTV and drones, to enhance monitoring capabilities, support intelligence efforts, and mitigate risks to personnel during operations in challenging environments.
Providing an overview of the command’s recent activities, Ibiloye reported that from January 2024 to June 2026, the Ondo State NSCDC had processed thousands of reported incidents. Numerous suspects have been arrested for crimes ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to theft, rape, and various forms of violence. Several convictions have been secured, while numerous cases remain ongoing in court.
Despite the persistent security concerns, Ibiloye maintained that Ondo State continues to be regarded as one of Nigeria’s more peaceful regions, attributing this relative calm to robust collaboration among various security agencies and stakeholders. He emphasized that ongoing intelligence sharing and community cooperation are vital in addressing the changing landscape of security threats.
Ondo State NSCDC Commandant, Dr. Oluyemi Ibiloye, says asymmetric warfare, kidnapping, intelligence gaps and local collaboration with criminal groups remain major drivers of insecurity. He called for stronger cooperation among security agencies, improved community intelligence, and greater use of technology to combat crime. Ibiloye also expressed support for state policing while cautioning against civilian firearm ownership, noting that the NSCDC is deploying drones, CCTV and other surveillance tools to strengthen security operations.
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