Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State Advocates for State Police to Tackle National Security Challenges
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has added his voice to the growing call for the creation of state police in Nigeria, citing it as a crucial solution to the country’s escalating security challenges. Speaking at the ongoing Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) in Lagos, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the inadequacy of the current centralized policing system in addressing the complex and evolving security issues facing the nation.
During a lecture at the event’s Breakout Session titled “Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Leadership Series: Is State Police a Solution to National Insecurity?”, Governor Aiyedatiwa argued that the existing federal policing structure has failed to protect citizens from violent criminals who terrorize highways and rural farmlands. He asserted that decentralizing the police force would provide a more effective response to these threats.
Aiyedatiwa assured the audience that the South West Security Network, known as Amotekun, remains a permanent fixture in Ondo State’s security architecture. “Amotekun, established by my predecessor, will continue to receive funding to enhance its operations,” he stated. He praised the initiative, which was born out of a collaborative effort among South West governors under the leadership of the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON. According to Aiyedatiwa, Amotekun has achieved remarkable success, demonstrating the transformative power of state-level security measures.
“Amotekun Corps’ journey has been marked by significant achievements and unwavering resilience. Our courageous men and women have faced terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers head-on, forging strong ties with the communities they protect,” Aiyedatiwa noted. “Their tireless efforts have not only saved countless lives but also restored a sense of security to our people. Amotekun has proven that when we empower our communities and trust them with the responsibility and resources to secure their own lives and property, they can deliver remarkable results.”
The Governor highlighted the successful collaboration between Amotekun and other security agencies, positioning Ondo State as one of the most peaceful and secure states in Nigeria today. He called on other states to replicate the Amotekun model in anticipation of the establishment of state police.
Governor Aiyedatiwa further described Ondo as a secure and attractive destination for both local and foreign investors, underscoring the state’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful environment. He commended the leadership of the NBA for organizing the session and urged the federal government to consider the widespread demand for state policing.
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Commander of Amotekun in Ondo State, also spoke at the event, detailing the recent achievements of the security outfit and thanking Governor Aiyedatiwa for his continued support and funding of the agency.
NBA President Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his insightful lecture, expressing the bar’s support for the establishment of state police. Human rights advocate Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, and other speakers at the session also lauded the Ondo State model of Amotekun and urged the federal government to heed the growing calls for state police as a necessary step towards enhancing security across the country.
