Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says that his administration has ratified the purchase of two aircraft at the sum of ₦7,763,360,000 to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other insecurity issues.
The two light aircraft, DA 42 MNG model, are Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft equipped with advanced surveillance technology capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes. The two aircraft are expected to enhance the efforts of Amotekun and other security forces in the state to combat bandits in their hideouts.
Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information, confirmed this in a statement released after the Executive Council meeting on Wednesday. The Commissioner explained that the procurement was approved as part of the government’s renewed commitment to protect the state from the influx of bandits and their criminal activities.
He assured people of the state that the immediate procurement of these aircraft will help address the threats posed by illegal miners, kidnappers, and other security challenges, especially in the vast hinterland of the state.
The Commissioner maintained that the state must remain vigilant, considering reports of kidnappings and banditry in some areas of the state, despite the fact that Oyo State enjoys relative peace compared to other states in Nigeria.
He noted that the preference for these aircraft over helicopters stems from their lower maintenance costs, the availability of spare parts, and the fact that the Nigerian Air Force already operates several models of this type, allowing for synergy.
Oyelade added that among the South West Security Networks, Amotekun in Oyo State has the highest number of personnel, with 2,500 staff, the most vehicles, numbering 181, and the most motorcycles, totaling 450. He further mentioned that Amotekun staff are the highest paid in the South West, with a minimum monthly salary of ₦116,000.
