Immigration alone cannot secure land borders, says Akeredolu

Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, has expressed concerns over the rate at which illegal immigrants pass through the nation’s land borders to perpetrate crime. 

Akeredolu spoke on Tuesday when he hosted Dora Amahian, zonal coordinator, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Zone F.

The zone comprises Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states.

Akeredolu had on January 18 given herders a seven-day ultimatum to vacate the state’s forest reserves, citing the rising spate of insecurity.

Commenting afresh on the issue, he said a number of criminal activities in the forest reserves are carried out by foreigners.

The governor said Nigerians would be shocked to know the number of illegal immigrants who come into the country through the land borders on a daily basis.

He said there is a need for urgent action to tackle the issue of illegal foreigners becoming permanent residents of the country while calling for a synergy between immigration and other security agencies.

Akeredolu said: “Something has to be done. A number of criminal activities in our forest reserves are being perpetrated by foreigners. We are facing serious security challenges.

“I don’t know if you can face the challenge. I am not too sure your efforts alone can be sufficient. There is the need for collaboration with other security agencies. Peace is what we are talking about in the country.”