The Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, has officially backed the creation of state police forces. Commanders from the region argue that shifting away from a centralized security model is the most practical way to tackle Nigeria’s persistent safety concerns.
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, head of the South-West Amotekun Commanders Forum and the Ondo State Amotekun Corps, stated in Akure that localized policing improves intelligence, crime detection, and community protection. He emphasized that the efficacy of Amotekun in tracking and prosecuting offenders demonstrates the benefits of a regionalized approach. Specifically, the Ondo State unit reported the arrest and successful prosecution of over 500 individuals this year, with many suspects now incarcerated.
Adeleye noted that local personnel possess a deep understanding of their specific environments, which assists in identifying criminals. He confirmed that the regional outfit is prepared to adapt to any federal regulations established to implement a state police system. Former Ondo State House of Assembly Speaker, Jumoke Akindele, echoed these sentiments, asserting that the achievements of Amotekun provide a clear mandate for constitutional reforms to allow state-controlled security.
