OYO APC DEMANDS ANSWERS FROM MAKINDE AFTER RENEWED BANDIT ATTACK

The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has questioned Governor Seyi Makinde over the effectiveness and deployment of the surveillance aircraft acquired by his administration following another attack by suspected bandits in the state. The opposition party raised concerns about the whereabouts and operational use of the aircraft, asking why renewed attacks continue to occur despite the government’s investment in aerial security technology.

The APC said the latest security incident had raised fresh questions about the state government’s preparedness to prevent attacks and protect residents. The party argued that the government had presented the surveillance aircraft as a major tool for intelligence gathering, monitoring criminal activities and supporting security personnel, and therefore demanded an explanation on whether the equipment was being effectively utilised to track and prevent bandit operations.

The controversy comes after the Oyo State Government acquired two DA42 MNG surveillance aircraft at a reported cost of about ₦7.7 billion. The aircraft are designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations and were procured to complement the work of Amotekun and other security agencies. The government had said they would assist in monitoring the state’s large land area, including areas along the Oyo-Kwara boundary and the international border with the Republic of Benin.

The aircraft were eventually received by the state in July 2026, with the government announcing that they would strengthen aerial monitoring and improve the ability of security agencies to respond to criminal activities. The Nigerian Air Force is also involved in their operation under an agreement with the Oyo State Government. Makinde had maintained that the aircraft acquisition was part of a long-term security strategy and was not a response to any particular kidnapping or bandit attack.

However, the APC said the renewed attack showed that the government must provide clearer answers on the impact of its security investments. The party has repeatedly criticised Makinde over the state’s handling of insecurity and has called for stronger coordination among the government, security agencies and local communities. It insisted that beyond purchasing security equipment, the administration must ensure that intelligence is effectively gathered, acted upon and translated into the protection of residents and communities across Oyo State.