The Ondo State chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors has strongly criticized the state government for its handling of security issues, following the recent abduction of nine surveyors in Ilu Abo, Akure North Local Government Area.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped by gunmen last week while conducting a survey at a project site.
Their disappearance sparked protests in Akure, where women took to the streets on Tuesday, demanding urgent government intervention. Hours after the demonstration, the abducted surveyors were released.
According to The PUNCH, NIS Ondo Chairman, Kayode Bello, expressed disappointment over the government’s response to security threats, urging authorities to take proactive measures instead of waiting for incidents to occur before acting.
“Swift intervention is needed to ensure the safe return of any kidnapped citizens. Government must take decisive action on security rather than reacting after incidents have occurred,” Bello stated.
Bello also condemned remarks made by the Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Union Matters and Special Duties, Bola Taiwo, who suggested that the victims should have hired private security, given the fees they charge clients.
Reacting to Taiwo’s comments, Bello described them as “insensitive and baseless.”
“We are deeply disappointed by the reoccurring security lapses in Ondo State and even more appalled by the response of a government official who suggested that surveyors should hire security escorts. Surveyors and other allied professionals in Ondo State civil service do not embark on fieldwork with security operatives,” he said.
He emphasized that ensuring the safety of citizens is the government’s responsibility, not that of individual professionals.
“The duty of any responsible government is to provide security for its citizens. Rather than shifting blame to victims, the government must focus on making Ondo State safer for all,” he added.
Bello further dismissed Taiwo’s claim that surveyors earn enough to cover personal security costs, stating that the profession operates within fixed fees.
“Accusing surveyors of collecting huge amounts from clients without investing in security is not only baseless but also unquantifiable. Surveying, like other regulated professions, operates within fixed fees, and it is unrealistic to expect professionals to factor personal security expenses into their charges,” he explained.
The NIS has called on Taiwo to retract his statement within 48 hours and urged the state government to prioritize security rather than making dismissive comments.
