Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa Affirms Amotekun’s Future and Advocates for State Police
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has reaffirmed the commitment to the South West Security Network, known as Amotekun, emphasizing its role in enhancing security and reducing crime in the region. Speaking at the Annual General Conference of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) held at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) in Lagos, Aiyedatiwa assured that Amotekun will continue to receive funding to bolster its operations.
The Governor highlighted the positive impact of Amotekun in curbing criminal activities and protecting the South West from banditry. He stressed the need for the creation of State Police as a vital solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.
In his lecture titled “Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Leadership Series: Is State Police a Solution to National Insecurity?” Aiyedatiwa criticized the centralized policing system for its inadequacies in addressing the evolving security threats. He noted that the current system has struggled to safeguard citizens from criminal elements and provide justice effectively.
“Amotekun, born out of the visionary leadership of my late principal, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, and his fellow South West Governors, represents a groundbreaking approach to state-level security,” Aiyedatiwa remarked. He praised Amotekun for its achievements and resilience, noting that it has significantly enhanced security and fostered community trust.
The Governor urged other states to adopt the Amotekun model in anticipation of a future with State Police. He described Ondo as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and investor-friendly states, crediting Amotekun’s synergy with other security agencies for the region’s improved safety.
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Commander of Amotekun in Ondo State, lauded Aiyedatiwa for continuing the legacy of supporting the agency, while NBA President Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, and human rights advocate Femi Falana, SAN, endorsed the Governor’s call for State Police, underscoring the success of the Amotekun model and urging the federal government to heed these calls.
The session highlighted the critical role of localized security measures and the potential benefits of adopting state-level police forces to address Nigeria’s security needs more effectively.
