# Tags
#Hope Metro

State police essential for crime reduction – Osun Amotekun boss

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Commander of Amotekun in Osun State, Mr. Isaac Omoyele, has advocated for the establishment of state police, stating that it will significantly aid in combating crime and criminality across the state and the entire southwest region of Nigeria.

According to Omoyele, creating state police would ensure crime reduction because recruits would be indigenes who understand the terrain and are committed to eradicating crime.

Omoyele spoke at a program tagged “The News Point,” organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, on Tuesday.

He emphasized that Amotekun, whose primary mandate is to protect lives and property, will continue to collaborate with other security agencies to tackle all forms of criminal activities in the state.

“When people discuss state policing, some claim that politicians will misuse it. I find this argument absurd. State policing will operate under laws that protect its independence and professionalism,” Omoyele stated.

He further argued, “If federal police can function without undue political interference, then state police can too. Laws can be enacted to prevent any form of abuse. For instance, during elections, police officers deployed to polling units are unarmed and accredited. The same principle can apply to state policing.”

Omoyele also highlighted the historical existence of regional policing in Nigeria, noting that state policing worked effectively in the past before its abolition. He stressed that reviving state police would enhance community-based security, as local officers would be better equipped to address local challenges.

“Those who established Amotekun understood the need for a localized security force to confront emerging security threats. Our officers are spiritually and physically prepared to handle any situation, including combating banditry,” he added.

Related News  Court remands fake soldier over stolen Hilux

Omoyele reaffirmed that Amotekun was not created to rival any security agency but to complement existing efforts in safeguarding lives and property. He disclosed that, despite having only 320 officers and men, plans are underway to recruit more personnel. Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the recruitment, which has been accommodated in the 2025 budget.

“Despite our manpower challenges, the corps has performed exceptionally well in crime detection, prevention, and control. We are working closely with other Amotekun units in Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, and Ekiti States to ensure effective synergy in crime reduction across the southwest,” Omoyele stated.

He assured residents of Osun State of their safety and solicited public support in addressing insecurity. He warned criminals that the Amotekun corps would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt the peace of the state.

“Our mission is to ensure that the people of Osun can sleep with their two eyes closed,” he concluded.

Share
State police essential for crime reduction – Osun Amotekun boss

2031: Dr. Akahan advocates power shift to

State police essential for crime reduction – Osun Amotekun boss

ABUAD matriculates 2,955