…Says his reappointment is well-deserved
By Tola Gbadamosi
In a move that has sparked applause from the media community and reinforced public confidence in the state’s security system, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has thrown its weight behind the reappointment of Akogun Adetunji Adeleye as Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed the Amotekun Corps.
Describing the decision as a “masterstroke” by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the NUJ noted that Adeleye’s return to the helm of affairs will “send shivers down the spines of criminal elements” and “reaffirm Ondo’s unyielding stance against lawlessness.”
In an emphatic statement signed by the State Chairman, Prince ‘Leke Adegbite, and the State Secretary, Comrade Olaoluwa Meshack, the journalists’ body lauded the governor for his foresight, calling the move a testament to Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the state and building on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, the late Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
“It’s a strategic masterstroke that not only consolidates the security gains of the past four years but also sends a resounding message that Ondo remains a fortress, impenetrable to criminal elements lurking in our forests, highways, and farmlands,” the NUJ declared.
The union acknowledged the significant role Adeleye has played in ensuring the safety of residents, particularly in protecting farms, highways, and forests against criminal elements.
The statement noted that under Adeleye’s leadership, the Amotekun Corps has become a formidable force in safeguarding lives and property in Ondo State.
“This is undoubtedly one of the best decisions of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration,” the statement read.
“The reappointment of Akogun Adetunji Adeleye will not only solidify the strong structure of the Amotekun Corps, established over four years ago, but also send a clear message that Ondo State remains off-limits to criminal elements.”
The NUJ further praised the Amotekun Corps as a model of community policing, suggesting it should be replicated across the nation and entrenched in Nigeria’s constitution as a blueprint for state and community security frameworks.
The union also commended the synergy between the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
It called on the Corps to maintain its momentum in safeguarding the state.
While applauding Governor Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the legacy of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who was instrumental in the creation of the Amotekun Corps, the NUJ urged the state government to prioritise funding for the security outfit to ensure its continued efficiency and effectiveness.
The statement concluded by reaffirming its support for the administration’s efforts to protect lives and property in Ondo State, stressing that the reappointment of Adeleye is a step in the right direction towards achieving long-term security stability in the state.
Findings revealed that Adeleye’s reappointment has been well received by various stakeholders, who view it as a critical decision to bolster the state’s security network.