Alarming Disappearance: Over 200 Amotekun Operatives Feared Lost
The Oyo State APC has expressed deep concern over the reported loss of more than 200 Amotekun operatives, calling the development unacceptable. The party demanded more details from the state government, urging improved welfare, proper deployment, and enhanced collaboration with federal agencies to strengthen security.
The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has voiced significant concern regarding the reported loss of over 200 operatives of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, describing the development as unacceptable. This strong statement was issued on Thursday by the party's Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Sadare, in response to remarks attributed to Governor Seyi Makinde concerning the number of security operatives reportedly lost by the state security outfit.
In its reaction, the APC urged the state government to provide comprehensive details surrounding this revelation. The party emphasized that such clarification is crucial to strengthen public confidence and to enhance measures aimed at protecting both security personnel and the general residents of the state. The reported figure, according to the APC, raises serious questions about the prevailing operational conditions and the adequacy of welfare arrangements within the Amotekun Corps.
Furthermore, the APC called upon the state government to foster improved collaboration between Amotekun and federal security agencies. This, they argued, would significantly enhance intelligence sharing capabilities and overall security operations across the state. The party also strongly criticized what it termed the deployment of Amotekun operatives to guard private hotels, properties, and business facilities allegedly linked to associates of government officials. The APC insisted that the corps must be deployed strictly in line with its original security mandate, avoiding any deviations.
To bolster the effectiveness of the Amotekun Corps, the APC advocated for several critical reforms. These include the recruitment of competent personnel, the implementation of regular training and retraining programs, the provision of improved welfare packages, and the supply of adequate operational tools. The party maintained that involving security experts and implementing broader reforms are essential steps to strengthen crime-fighting efforts and to significantly reduce the risks faced by operatives in the diligent discharge of their duties. Ultimately, the APC concluded that prioritizing improved welfare and ensuring the proper deployment of personnel are vital for building a more robust and effective security architecture within Oyo State.