Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, declaring that the safety of lives and property remains non-negotiable for sustainable development.
The governor spoke at the passing-out parade of Batch 05 of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, held at the parade ground of the Ondo State House of Assembly Arcade Complex in Akure.
Aiyedatiwa said no society could prosper in an atmosphere of fear, stressing that economic growth and social stability depend largely on effective protection of citizens.
He described the induction of 500 new operatives as a major step toward strengthening the state’s security framework and safeguarding communities across urban and rural areas.
The governor recalled the contributions of his late predecessor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, to the establishment of the corps, noting that the initiative had grown into a vital community-based security outfit.
According to him, the newly recruited personnel underwent rigorous training covering physical endurance, tactical operations, intelligence gathering, inter-agency collaboration, human rights, and rules of engagement.
“They came in as civilians but are leaving as defenders of the people and custodians of community trust,” he said, urging the operatives to carry out their duties with discipline, professionalism and respect for the rule of law.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that Amotekun was conceived as an intelligence-driven institution designed to complement federal security agencies while responding swiftly to local security challenges.
He assured that his administration would continue to improve the welfare, equipment and operational capacity of the corps to enhance performance.
In his remarks, the Commander of the corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, cautioned the operatives against abuse of power, corruption and indiscipline, warning that any misconduct would attract sanctions.
He explained that the outfit was created to support conventional security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, in addressing threats such as kidnapping, banditry and communal clashes.
Adeleye added that the training programme was structured to produce disciplined operatives capable of protecting communities rather than intimidating residents.
Dignitaries at the event included members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, traditional rulers, religious leaders and heads of security agencies.
The governor reiterated that residents, farmers, traders and students across the state were relying on the corps to ensure peace and stability, pledging continued support to maintain Ondo State as a safe place to live and invest.
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