The Ondo State Government has expressed concern over recent operations by officers of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in parts of the state, urging the police authorities to ensure that security activities are conducted in line with established procedures and with due regard for public safety.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, the government said the commando-style operations had created panic and apprehension among residents already contending with security concerns across the country.

While acknowledging the constitutional mandate of security agencies to investigate crimes and combat criminality, the government stressed that such operations should be carried out professionally and in accordance with laid-down protocols.

According to the statement, “While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of security agencies to investigate and combat criminal activities, the government believes that operations of such nature should be conducted in accordance with established protocols and with due consideration for public safety and confidence.”

The government noted that the manner in which some of the operations were conducted was generating unnecessary anxiety among law-abiding citizens and disrupting the peaceful atmosphere for which Ondo State is known.

“The State Government therefore calls on the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take appropriate steps to regulate the activities of specialised units operating across the state and ensure that proper procedures are strictly adhered to in the conduct of security operations,” the statement read.

The government further emphasised the need for effective communication and coordination between security agencies and relevant state authorities whenever actionable intelligence necessitates security interventions.

It stated that “wherever actionable intelligence exists, official channels of communication and coordination with relevant state authorities should be activated to avoid creating avoidable tension among the populace.”

Ajanaku reiterated that the state government remains supportive of lawful security operations aimed at protecting lives and property but maintained that such activities must be carried out responsibly.

“The government reiterates that it will not oppose legitimate security operations aimed at protecting citizens and combating crime. However, such operations must be carried out professionally, responsibly, and in line with established operational standards that inspire public confidence rather than fear,” he said.

The commissioner assured residents of the government’s continued commitment to their safety and wellbeing, urging them to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.

He added that the government would continue to engage relevant security authorities to ensure that security operations within the state are conducted in a manner that respects due process and preserves public peace.