Amotekun assures Ondo residents of safety

By Tola Gbadamosi
The Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has reiterated the state government’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Adeleye, in a recent interview with The Hope Metro, assured residents of Ondo State of the Corps’ proactive measures and dedication to ensuring their security.
He expressed confidence that citizens could carry on with their daily activities without fear, thanks to the robust strategies adopted by the agency.
Highlighting the Corps’ efforts to address various security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, and other illegal activities, Adeleye emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation in maintaining peace across the state.
“We need drones, tracking equipment, life jackets, bulletproof jackets, and a host of other tools to enhance the operational capacity of the Corps,” Adeleye stated, underscoring the need for resources to improve operations.
He commended the Ondo State Government, under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for its unwavering support in tackling insecurity and sustaining peace.
Commenting on the recent cult clash in Owo, which resulted in loss of lives, Adeleye lauded the swift intervention by the state government.
“The government acted swiftly by declaring a curfew in Owo, and you can imagine how much worse the situation could have been if that step hadn’t been taken. Security agencies have also been patrolling Owo metropolis to curb cultist activities effectively,” he explained.
Adeleye attributed the rising insecurity in the country to youth unemployment, noting its role in fostering restiveness.
“Many of our youths are unemployed despite being literate. With the devil finding work for idle hands, thuggery, cultism, and robbery become prevalent.
“The government must step up efforts to create job opportunities for young men and women across the state and country. Gainful employment will significantly reduce criminal tendencies,” he advised.
He further expressed optimism about the South-West region’s preparedness to tackle security challenges, attributing this to the establishment of Amotekun.
“In terms of state policing, the foundational elements are already in place. It’s just a matter of refining them to meet the standards of a fully-fledged state police force,” he said.
Adeleye revealed that Amotekun has deployed Rangers to the Akoko area, particularly at border points linking Ondo State with Benin and Ekiti States, to forestall criminal activities.
“This move aims to forestall criminal activities in these areas, with reports indicating that the strategy is yielding positive results,” he said.
The Commander praised the Corps’ achievements, which have earned widespread recognition, noting its impact on making Ondo State one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.
“Through our yuletide and border patrols, we facilitated the release of hundreds of kidnapped victims and recovered numerous stolen vehicles. Additionally, we have substantially reduced farmer-herder clashes, enabling farmers to return to their farms.
“Commercial activities have resumed fully, and people can now conduct business without fear. Residents can even sleep with both eyes closed,” Adeleye said.
The Amotekun Corps’ swift and effective response to threats has positioned it as a model for community-driven security in the South-West, with its efforts in combating cultism, robbery, and other criminal activities fostering peace and safety.
Adeleye concluded by reaffirming the Corps’ commitment to maintaining tranquillity and security across Ondo State.
“Our achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of Amotekun in building a secure and prosperous Ondo State,” he added.