By Josephine Oguntoyinbo
The Ondo State House of Assembly has commended the State Security Network Agency, codenamed ‘Amotekun’, for improving the security situation in the state and ensuring that residents are protected.
The House Committee on Security, led by its Chairman, Hon. Ololade Gbegudu, gave the commendation during an oversight visit to the Agency in Akure.
Gbegudu also praised the political will of the state government in strengthening the system, including repairing bad portions of roads, which is another way of combating crime.
Members noted that security is everyone’s business, hence the need for all to be proactive in security matters.
While pledging the House of Assembly’s support for the Agency in flushing out criminals, they remarked that the Agency should not relent in its efforts.
Earlier, the State Commandant of the Agency, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, while highlighting their activities, challenges, and achievements, stated that criminals were being tracked, arrested, and prosecuted from time to time, making the state one of the safest in Nigeria.
While acknowledging that insecurity has increased in the last six months, as Ondo State is not isolated from the general insecurity in Nigeria, he assured that every measure is being put in place, which is yielding tremendous results.
According to him, most kidnappings take place close to borders, which prompted the Agency to meet with stakeholders in the affected areas, promising to cooperate with them when the need arises.
The Commandant informed that areas prone to criminal activities were mapped out, which has drastically reduced the menace.
Adeleye, who said that the Amotekun forest rangers approved by the state government are performing effectively with positive results, noted that in the last eight months, no kidnapping case had been recorded in their areas of operation. He, however, noted that the rangers need to be better equipped.
He affirmed that the Anti-Grazing Law passed by the House of Assembly has significantly reduced cases of farmer-herder clashes, which has allowed farmers to breathe easier and go about their activities.
Adeleye added that the Agency had built a court in the high court premises for the quick dispensation of justice and also partnered with local hunters to enhance information gathering.
He said that with the creation of 33 LCDAs and the existing 18 local governments, more personnel are needed to carry out their duties.
Adeleye appreciated the state governor for the political will accorded to the Agency, which, he said, had improved its operations.
The security expert also commended the lawmakers for their legislative support towards the security outfit and assured them that the Corps is committed to protecting the lives and property of the people.