Governor Ademola Adeleke has launched a major security intervention in Osun State, activating the long-awaited Security Trust Fund and directly accusing the administration of Gboyega Oyetola of weakening the state’s security architecture by abandoning the initiative.
Speaking at the official launch in Osogbo, Adeleke said the decision to revive the fund was driven by worsening security concerns and shrinking public resources, stressing that modern realities demand stronger collaboration between government and the private sector.
To signal seriousness, the Governor immediately committed N300 million from the state government, setting off a wave of support from stakeholders and private contributors.
In a dramatic show of backing, billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke donated N500 million, bringing the initial funding momentum to N800 million, with several corporate bodies pledging additional contributions.
Adeleke: “Security Is Too Important to Abandon”
Taking a direct swipe at his predecessor, Adeleke described the abandonment of the security trust fund as a dangerous misstep, noting that the framework had existed but was left inactive for years.
According to him, no responsible government would ignore a working security model, especially at a time when states across Nigeria are strengthening internal security systems through similar funding structures.
“We revived and updated the law because security is not optional. It is a necessity,” the Governor stated.
CCTV Surveillance, Armoured Vehicles, Situation Room
Unveiling his administration’s security roadmap, Adeleke announced plans to deploy refurbished Armoured Personnel Carriers and new patrol vehicles to boost operational capacity across the state.
He also disclosed plans to establish a modern situation room equipped with real-time CCTV surveillance, designed to improve intelligence gathering and rapid response to threats.
The Governor emphasized that the fund would provide sustainable financing for security infrastructure, ensuring continuous support for law enforcement agencies operating within the state.
Government Assures Transparency, Calls for Support
Adeleke assured donors and stakeholders that the trust fund would be managed with strict accountability and transparency, in line with its legal framework.
He called on private sector players, financial institutions, development partners, and indigenes of Osun to key into the initiative, describing it as a collective responsibility to safeguard lives and property.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government, Bobagunwa Adekunle Teslim Igbalaye, commended the activation of the fund, noting that its enabling law dates back to 2012 but had remained largely dormant until now.
Political Undertone, Clear Battle Lines
With the launch of the Security Trust Fund and strong financial backing already secured, the Adeleke administration has not only escalated its security response but also drawn a clear political contrast with the past government.
As Osun moves closer to the 2026 elections, the issue of security, and who is better positioned to handle it, appears set to become a central battleground.
