You're Not Recruited to Harass or Intimidate, Abiodun Tells Amotekun.
— 553 New Officers Pass Out in Ogun's Ongoing Security Reform Drive
By Segun Omo Ojikutu
Sagamu, Ogun State – In a strong message of discipline, duty, and public trust, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, declared that officers of the Amotekun Corps were not recruited to harass or intimidate citizens, but to protect lives and uphold the peace.
Speaking at the Passing-Out Parade of Batch “E” operatives of the Ogun State
Amotekun Corps, held at Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu, on Friday, Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to community-based security and grassroots policing.
The latest ceremony saw 553 newly trained officers formally inducted into the Corps, barely six months after 690 others were commissioned in a similar parade. The Governor described the event as “a defining moment in our collective efforts towards a safer Ogun State.”
“Today’s parade is not merely ceremonial. It is a powerful affirmation of your readiness to serve and safeguard our communities,” he said.
Abiodun, who doubles as the Grand Commander of the Amotekun Corps, noted that the initiative had proven doubters wrong and now stands as a credible force complementing federal security agencies through community trust and local intelligence.
A Model That Works
Drawing on the philosophy of Sir Robert Peel, founder of modern policing, Abiodun stressed that “the police are the public and the public are the police,” underscoring the value of community collaboration in achieving lasting peace.
He lauded the Corps Commander, Brigadier General Alade Isiaq Adedigba (Retd.), for instilling practical and modern security training in the officers. He also extended appreciation to facilitators, instructors, and stakeholders who contributed to the training exercise.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” the Governor emphasized. “No form of crime prevention can succeed unless the public and police cooperate.”
Community, Not Command
The Governor issued a stern warning to the new officers, reminding them that their mission is service—not suppression.
“You are not recruited to harass or intimidate, but to protect,” he declared. “Let your actions reflect discipline, transparency and service. Treat every citizen with dignity.”
The newly commissioned officers, he said, will be deployed across the state, with a strategic focus on rural and underserved areas where security gaps persist. Their mission includes working closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to strengthen surveillance and response systems.
Sustained Investment
The Deputy Governor highlighted several state-level efforts to reinforce security operations, including the recent donation of 15 operational vehicles in March 2025, the reconstitution of the Ogun State Security Trust Fund, and increased private sector support.
She reiterated that the government would continue to invest in logistics, training, and the welfare of the Corps.
“We have consistently provided essential equipment, operational vehicles, and communication tools to support the Corps.”
Ogun State, according to her, remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, thanks to strategic planning, sustained funding, and inter-agency cooperation.
Notable Dignitaries in Attendance
The event drew a high-profile audience, including:
Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Alhaja Salamot Makanjuola Badru, former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, AIG Olusola Subair (Retd.) Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AIG , Hon. Tunde Tella, Chairman, Ogun State House Committee on Establishment, Brigadier General Alade Isiaq Adedigba (Retd.) Ogun Amotekun Corps Commander, Major General Adekoya Adeleke (Retd.), Other Service chiefs in the State, Royal fathers, members of the Ogun State Security Network Agency, Heads of tertiary institutions, and the Ogun State Cultural Troupe.
The ceremony concluded on a note of inspiration as the Governor quoted Dr. Nelson Mandela:
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fall.”
With their marching boots polished and uniforms crisp, the 553 new Amotekun operatives saluted into a future of responsibility, accountability, and above all, service to the people.
No comments:
Post a Comment
150