From Michael Ofulue

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The Amotekun Corps Commander in Osun, Gen. Bashir Adewinmbi (rtd), has advocated formation of state police to strengthen security architecture in South West states..

Adewinmbi said such step will enhance community policing through closer ties between communities and their police force, to foster trust and cooperation among the people.

The corps commander stated this in an interview with newsmen in Osogbo, on Sunday.

He called for more sophisticated weapons for Amotekun officers to enable them effectively complement the tireless efforts of other sisters security agencies.

His words: “Amotekun has all it takes to be converted to state police due to its bravery, familiarity with strategic terrains and also the calibre of officers who are professional hunters, local vigilantes and retired security personnel among others.

” I am in full support of state police being clamoured for in the country and it will help compliment the efforts of other security agencies.

” We need officers who know the terrain, who will be able to flush out criminals and easily identify strategic areas when the need arises”.

According to him, Amotekun should be given the sole right to also prosecute criminals in courts since there are some specialised professionals who are lawyers among them.

” We have lawyers who are legally sound and can prosecute any criminal to the highest court of law in the land.

” The issue of arresting and handing such culprits to the police or DSS can be done by our men. We have professionals among us”.

He said plans are ongoing to liaise with the state’s Assembly towards ensuring that aspirations and desires of Amotekun corps are met in due course.