Military base in Ogbomoso: Nudging our legislators, OVC to action

Military base in Ogbomoso: Nudging our legislators, OVC to action

Femi OGUNLANA

Sequel to a brutal attack on Oloka community in Oriire local government area of Ogbomoso zone of Oyo state few weeks ago, which left several forest guards gruesomely murdered, Oyo state governor Engr Seyi Makinde during a condolence visit promised to talk to the military top brass on the possibility of establishing a military base in the area to amplify security in Ogbomoso zone and forestall future attacks.

This position by the state’s helmsman was hailed as germane, timely and crucial by public-spirited people, who believed the zone is ripe for such military fortifications in view of the strategic position of Ogbomoso as a major gateway to the southern part of the country, from the north, the hotbed of terrorism, herdsmen killing and banditry. If security is breached in Ogbomoso axis, it is held that the whole of the region would become more vulnerable. The security architecture presently on ground though failed in preventing the dastardly act, it did well to quickly swing into action leading to the arrest of the suspects of the Oloka genocide. The prompt visit by the state governor also sent a signal that Oyo state will be somewhat hot for such devious criminal activities. To now propose the establishment of a military base is very impressive.

The governor has made a good proposition, Ogbomoso as direct beneficiary needs to ruffle feathers too and compliment the effort. It is incumbent on lawmakers from Ogbomoso zone to assume the task of pivoting the project, through securing legislative passage.

Also, the highly influential Ogbomoso Valiant Club (OVC) under the leadership of Rear Admiral Jacob Ajani (rtd) needs to pull its weight. Composed of serving and retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and paramilitary forces, including high ranking officers, the goal is very much within their reach. But they need to be strategic and work in alignment with the lawmakers from the zone and even collaborating with Governor Seyi Makinde. One wonders if they had even paid a courtesy visit to the governor since he unveiled the plan, to thank him and find means of working in synergy with him. OVC has made meaningful impact in the development of Ogbomoso, so, this one should be another feather to its glistening cap. A military facility as this falls within their scope and it is expected they would make the necessary contacts that could birth a military facility in the zone. Rear Admiral Ajani, history beckons. It is even learnt that a military base was once approved for the zone, through the efforts of some other illustrious sons.

We charge OVC and the legislators – Senator Fatai Buhari, Hon Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala and Hon Sunday Makanjuola -as well as OVC to pull strings to make the dream a reality. Since it is the idea of the governor we need to drive the project.

History beckons!