Hon. Kolawole Babatunde has urged young people in Ondo State to reject social vices and contribute positively to society.
Speaking as the Chairman of the Youth Multi-Stakeholders Summit on Social Vices, organized by the Coalition of Nigeria Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) on March 26, 2025, Babatunde emphasized the urgent need to tackle crimes such as cultism, internet fraud, drug abuse, and kidnapping, which he described as major threats to the state’s peace, security, and economic stability.
He commended the organizers for their efforts in bringing young people together to discuss security challenges, noting that the initiative reflects the role youths must play in addressing these issues rather than contributing to them.
According to him, Nigeria’s youth population is full of potential, but the rise in criminal activities among young people has become a source of concern.
He pointed out that cultism has led to senseless violence in schools and communities, while internet fraud and money laundering have given a false sense of wealth, damaging Nigeria’s global reputation.
He also decried the increasing cases of drug abuse, which have led many promising youths down a path of destruction, and noted that kidnapping and child trafficking have further torn families apart.
Babatunde stressed that the fight against crime should not be left to the government alone but should involve parents, educators, religious leaders, community heads, security agencies, and the youths themselves.
He called for a change in mindset, urging young people to recognize that true success comes from hard work and integrity, not shortcuts.
He also emphasized the need for stronger community policing and intelligence gathering to support security agencies in curbing criminal activities.
Additionally, he encouraged young people to take advantage of government-backed initiatives such as skill acquisition programs, vocational training, and entrepreneurship funding rather than resorting to illegal means of making money.
The lawmaker also addressed the misuse of technology, noting that while digital tools offer numerous opportunities, some young people have resorted to cybercrime instead of exploring ethical paths such as software development, data analysis, and e-commerce.
He called for increased digital literacy and responsible use of technology. Furthermore, he highlighted the dangers of drug abuse and cultism, urging schools, religious organizations, and communities to work together in rehabilitating addicts and preventing more young people from falling into these destructive habits.
He also emphasized the importance of strong family and community values in guiding youths toward responsible living.
Acknowledging the role of government in tackling security challenges, Babatunde praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration for implementing measures to enhance safety across the state.
He cited the provision of operational vehicles and security gadgets for law enforcement agencies, the launch of Operation Daada to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and the governor’s recent approval of training programs for investigators and prosecutors.
He also mentioned plans to establish a Task Force Against Cultism to tackle rising cases of cult-related violence in the state.
While commending these efforts, he stressed that security is a collective responsibility and called on religious institutions, civil society organizations, and traditional rulers to play a more active role in sensitizing young people against crime.
He urged young people to take responsibility for their future, warning that involvement in cultism, internet fraud, drug abuse, and other crimes would only lead to regret.
Instead, he encouraged them to embrace education, entrepreneurship, and innovation as pathways to success.
Babatunde concluded with a passionate call for unity and action, stating that Ondo State is blessed with talented, hardworking youths who have the potential to build a brighter future.
He urged them to rise above social vices and work towards a more secure and prosperous society. The summit, held at the Royal Birds Hotel in Akure, was attended by government officials, security experts, community leaders, and young people committed to tackling social vices in Ondo State.
