The General Officer Commanding, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj Gen Auwalu Mahmuda, has urged troops deployed around Old Oyo National Park to intensify operations against bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements in the area.
Mahmuda gave the directive on Wednesday during a visit to the Forward Operating Base in Igbeti, Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State, where he charged the troops to sustain their operational tempo and prevent criminals from operating freely within the park and its surroundings.
According to a statement issued in Ibadan by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Danjuma Danjuma, the GOC commended the troops for their efforts and achievements in the ongoing operations.
“I have been following operational developments in the OONP and its environs, particularly the troops’ efforts and achievements.
“I want you to sustain operational tempo against criminal elements. Ensure you clear the OONP and its environs of bandits, terrorists, other criminal elements, and effectively dominate the area by denying criminal elements freedom of action.”
Mahmuda added that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen W. Shaibu, was pleased with the troops’ resilience and encouraged them to intensify their efforts to improve security in the area.
He also appreciated other security agencies and local vigilantes for their support, noting that cooperation among security stakeholders was essential to the success of the operations.
“Your collaboration demonstrated effective operational synergy among security stakeholders. We cannot thank you enough for what you are doing.”
The GOC was received at the base by the Commander, 2 Division Garrison, Brig Gen Emmanuel Azenda, and the Commander of the newly established 8 Brigade in Oyo, Brig Gen Austin Obochi.
He was subsequently briefed on the operational situation by the Commanding Officer, 242 Reconnaissance Battalion, Col Godwin Akuve, and the Operations Officer, Maj Osaigbovo Ero, at the Forward Operating Base in Igbeti.
