A Call For The Immediate Disbandment Of Amotekun In Osun State

- By Akande Smile AdedayoΒ
I, Akande Smile Adedayo, am compelled to make this public statement to call on the Osun State Government to disband the Amotekun Corps due to its lack of professionalism, systemic inefficiencies, and undemocratic structure. My personal ordeal a few days ago serves as a glaring example of the dangers posed by the continued operation of this poorly managed state security initiative.
On 21st January, 2025, I was a victim of an unprovoked assault by operatives of the Amotekun Corps at Old Garage, Osogbo. What began as a parking dispute quickly escalated into a display of lawlessness, as I was slapped without provocation by one of the operatives, who appeared intoxicated. The situation worsened when the operatives fired unnecessary gunshots, smashed the phone of a police officer, and physically assaulted the officer. Shockingly, one of them, identified as Makinde, falsely paraded himself as a Naval officer. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Makinde had been sacked by the Nigerian Navy, further highlighting the questionable recruitment practices within the Amotekun Corps.
What is even more alarming is that the leader of the team involved in this unprofessional conduct is none other than the state commander of the Amotekun Corps- Issac Adekunle Omoyele. This raises serious questions about the competence, integrity, and oversight of the leadership of this security outfit. How can an individual with such questionable actions and conduct be entrusted with leading a sensitive security organization?
This incident reveals the fundamental flaws in the structure of Amotekun
- Lack of professionalism: the actions of the operatives, including impersonation, violence, and destruction of property, demonstrate that the corps is comprised of elements unfit for the responsibilities entrusted to them.
- Undemocratic Formation: Amotekunβs structure is riddled with political bureaucracy, serving the selfish interests of politicians rather than the people it is meant to protect.
- Rogue Elements: The presence of individuals like Makinde, a dismissed Naval officer, and the unprofessional state commander reflects the unchecked inclusion of rogue elements in the corps.
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Such individuals and their actions cannot guarantee peace, stability, or safety in Osun State. Instead, their presence endangers public trust and undermines the principles of justice and accountability.
In light of these revelations, I call for the immediate disbandment of the Amotekun Corps in Osun State. This initiative, in its current form, is not only inefficient but also counterproductive to the ideals of community safety and democratic governance.
I propose the establishment of a Democratically Formed State Policing System that includes, Members of the community including the Youths, Religious leaders,Traditional rulers, and Student leaders.
This reformed structure should be managed and controlled democratically by these stakeholders, ensuring accountability, transparency, and alignment with the needs of the people.
It is clear that the politically and bureaucratically influenced Amotekun Corps has failed to serve the people and has instead become a tool of oppression. It is time for a new, community-driven approach to security in Osun Stateβone that prioritizes the safety, dignity, and trust of its citizens.
I urge the government to take decisive action to restore public confidence in our security institutions and to ensure that those responsible for my assault and the broader misconduct within the Amotekun Corps are brought to justice.
- Akande Smile Adedayo writes from Osogbo
The opinions expressed in this publication are solely those of the author. It does not represent the editorial position or opinion of OSUN DEFENDER.