The Ondo State Government has expressed concern over recent operations carried out by officers of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in parts of the state, describing the manner of the operations as capable of creating fear and anxiety among residents.
In a press briefing in Akure, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said the commando-style operations had generated apprehension among citizens who were already dealing with security concerns across the country.
While acknowledging the constitutional mandate of security agencies to investigate crimes and maintain law and order, the government stressed that such operations should be conducted in line with established procedures and with adequate consideration for public safety.
According to the him, the manner in which the operations were carried out has disrupted the peaceful atmosphere for which Ondo State is known and has caused unnecessary panic among law-abiding residents.
The government therefore called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to take appropriate measures to regulate the activities of specialised police units operating within the state and ensure strict compliance with operational protocols.
He further stated that whenever actionable intelligence exists, security agencies should make use of official channels of communication and coordinate with relevant state authorities to avoid creating avoidable tension among members of the public.
The state government maintained that it is not opposed to legitimate security operations aimed at combating crime and protecting lives and property.
However, such operations must be carried out professionally, responsibly and in a manner that inspires public confidence rather than fear.