Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has directed his security team to commence processes for the acquisition of new surveillance drones and other security equipment following the alleged disappearance of five security drones.

The decision was reached after a series of security meetings chaired by Adeleke over the past four days, according to a statement issued on Wednesday, by the governor's spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed.

Following a review of the situation during the security meetings, Rasheed said Governor Adeleke ordered steps to procure new drones and other security gadgets to strengthen the state's security architecture and improve efforts against crime and banditry.

"We are not interested in what has happened in the past. Our goal is to acquire new drones and other needed equipment and materials for our formal and informal security networks to combat crimes and banditry in this state," Rasheed quoted Adeleke as saying.

The governor also reassured residents of his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property.

"Once again, I assure the good people of Osun that our government is committed to their safety and security. I urge the public to notify security agencies of any suspicious movement or individuals in their areas," the governor added.

However, Rasheed did not indicate the number of drones being considered for purchase or the projected cost of the proposed acquisition.

The development comes amid a recent spate of kidnappings across the country, particularly following the abduction of dozens of teachers and pupils from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, which borders Osun State.