Ogun Amotekun: Guardians of Peace and Safety in Southwestern Nigeria
In the heart of Southwestern Nigeria, the Western Nigeria Security Network (WNSN), also known as Operation Amotekun —Yoruba for “Leopard” or “Cheetah”— stands as a beacon of hope and vigilance. Established to bolster internal security across the region, including the vibrant Ogun State, Amotekun was born out of necessity amid rising concerns over insecurity.
On March 24, 2020, the Ogun State House of Assembly passed the Ogun State Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps Law, which was subsequently endorsed by His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, the Executive Governor of Ogun State. However, it wasn’t until April 1, 2021, that the Ogun State Amotekun Corps officially embarked on its pivotal mission. This marked the appointment of its first commander, the late CP Dave Ajibola Akinremi (rtd), alongside the esteemed proclamation of Prof. Wole Soyinka as the Grand Marshall, symbolizing the collective commitment to community safety.
In response to the growing threats of kidnapping, terrorism, armed robbery, banditry, and other violent crimes, the Amotekun Corps was conceived to ensure the safety and well-being of the people. Tasked with the imperative of safeguarding lives and properties, Amotekun operates under the direct supervision of the Ogun State Government, complementing the tireless efforts of traditional security agencies like the police.
What sets the Amotekun Corps apart is its foundation of local volunteers, deeply rooted in the communities they serve. These operatives are not only trained to understand and tackle the unique security challenges of their localities but also embody the very essence of community policing. With a commitment to intelligence gathering and proactive measures, they aim to create a sanctuary for residents amidst rising threats.
The recruitment process is a testament to trust and collaboration; operatives are selected from all 20 local government areas of Ogun State, bringing with them an unparalleled familiarity with the terrain and cultural nuances of their neighborhoods. Each officer is certified by traditional rulers, elders, and Community Development Associations, ensuring that character and integrity are upheld in the face of their profound responsibilities.
As a child borne out of urgency and care, Ogun Amotekun strives to bridge the gap between security forces and the community, fostering a secure environment where peace flourishes, with a view to cultivating a spirit of harmony and tranquility.
1. The agency are to systematically gather, document, evaluate and analyze data and information to convert to actionable intelligence for tactical, operational and strategic goals;
2. to share intelligence about crime, crime in progress, suspicious activities, criminal suspects and other criminal activities;
3. to collaborate with similar security network agencies on other States, including but not limited to Ekiti, Lagos, Ondo, Osun and Oyo States to deter kidnapping, terrorism, destruction of livelihood (farmlands, crops etcetera) criminal damage of property, cultism, highway robbery, human trafficking, cattle rustling, sea piracy and other criminal activities and to assist the Police and other law enforcement agencies in apprehending such criminals;
4. to protect lives and property with the State;
5. to ensure that all persons traveling along the highways, major roads, remote areas, hinterland, forest and inland waterways are free to participate in their normal social economic activities without fear or hindrance; and
6. to assist the Police and other security agencies to carry out any other lawful activity for maintaining law and order in the State
