Navy, Riverine Communities Faceoff: Govt intervenes in harms clashes in Ondo

The Ondo State Government deems it pertinent to intervene in the ongoing faceoff between men of the Nigerian Navy and the riverine communities of Ilaje Local Government Area of the State, VAM News has gathered.

Ondo state image

Specifically, Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN expresses concern over reported cases of incessant altercations between the Navy and the communities believably, as a result of the former's efforts to recover arms allegedly in the possession of some youths.

For the records, Government received series of reports in respect of this development and has followed up efforts geared toward the recovery of such arms allegedly in the hands of some youths.

All the same, it is worthy of mention that the desired success in this regard can only be achieved through community based intelligence gathering. It is believed that under circumstances as such, the communities are possibly, likely to be more helpful.

Incessant altercations can only lead to needless fear, create apprehensions and brood friction and inadvertently, sustain suspicion.

Government therefore appeals to the Nigerian Navy to de-escalate tension by engaging the communities in a manner that will engender a friendly approach to achieve positive results. 

Nonetheless, Comminity leaders in the riverine areas of the State must, as a matter of urgency, show enough cooperation with security agencies to make the waterways safe.

In a statement signed by Donald Ojogo, Hon.Commissioner for Information and Orientation Confirmed reports of collaboration between community leaders and criminals will not be overlooked as Government will leave no stone unturned to bring perpetrators to face the full wrath of the Law.