By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has warned the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies operating in the state to stop the arrest and harassment of operatives of the the state’s Amotekun Corps while carrying out their lawful duties.
He gave the warning during a high-level security meeting with heads of security agencies in the state, as he decried any form of intimidation of Amotekun personnel engaged in legitimate operations.
However, he maintained that any operative found acting outside the law should be held accountable in accordance with due process.
His directive was welcomed by the Commander of the Osun Amotekun Corps, High Chief Dr. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, who described the governor’s decision as timely and commendable.
In a statement issued on Thursday through the Corps’ Public Relations Officer, CSA Yusuf Idowu Abass, Omoyele said the directive would strengthen cooperation among security agencies, boost public confidence in the state’s security architecture and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Amotekun Corps.
He said Governor Adeleke’s position reflected his commitment to strengthening security, protecting legally established institutions and promoting collaboration among security agencies responsible for safeguarding lives and property.
Omoyele noted that the Osun Amotekun Corps was established by law to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in combating crime and maintaining peace across the state, adding that the outfit had consistently carried out its responsibilities professionally and in accordance with the law.
According to him, the governor’s directive should be respected and implemented by all security agencies operating in Osun State, as it recognises the legal status of the corps and encourages mutual respect among security institutions.
“The directive of His Excellency, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, is a welcome development that will further promote harmonious working relationships among security agencies in Osun State.
“It is important that Osun Amotekun officers who are lawfully performing their official duties are not subjected to unnecessary arrests or actions capable of undermining their morale and public confidence in the corps,” Omoyele said.
He added that the governor’s directive would encourage Amotekun personnel to discharge their responsibilities with greater confidence, knowing that their lawful operations were recognised and protected by the state government.
The Corps Commander reaffirmed the commitment of the Osun Amotekun Corps to professionalism, discipline, respect for human rights and sustained collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property across Osun State.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Adeleke for his continued support for the corps and his commitment to strengthening the state’s security framework, assuring residents that Amotekun would remain dedicated to protecting lives, property and maintaining peace across the state.
