Ondo Raises Alarm Over FID Raids, Seeks Police Intervention
The Ondo State Government has expressed concern over what it described as commando-style operations by officers of the Force Intelligence Department (FID), warning that the raids are creating fear and anxiety among residents.
The government called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that specialized police units operating in the state adhere to due process and established operational procedures during security operations.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, the government acknowledged the constitutional mandate of security agencies to investigate and combat crime but stressed that such operations must be carried out in a manner that safeguards public confidence and safety.
According to the statement, the recent operations have unsettled law-abiding residents and disrupted the peaceful atmosphere for which Ondo State is known.
The government urged the Inspector-General of Police to regulate the activities of specialized units in the state, insisting that intelligence-driven operations should involve proper coordination with relevant state authorities to prevent avoidable panic.
It maintained that where actionable intelligence exists, official channels of communication should be activated before carrying out operations capable of generating public apprehension.
While reaffirming its support for legitimate security operations aimed at protecting lives and combating criminality, the state government insisted that such missions must be conducted professionally, responsibly and in line with established operational standards.
The government also assured residents of its commitment to their safety and wellbeing, urging them to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities while it engages relevant security authorities to ensure that future operations are carried out in accordance with due process and with respect for public peace.
