The South-West Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, has deployed over 2,000 personnel to flush out bandits and other criminals hiding in the region’s forests.
Ogun and Osun states are leading the charge, each mobilising 1,000 recruits, while Oyo State recently deployed 480 forest rangers. The operation follows alarming reports of increased kidnapping and criminal activities linked to bandits infiltrating the region from Sahel countries.
Amotekun commanders across the region have confirmed plans to bolster their forces further. Ondo Amotekun Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, stated that forest rangers had already been deployed, warning, “No room for bandits in Ondo State.” Adeleye also highlighted the need for advanced weapons and tracking technology to enhance operations.
In Ogun State, Commander Brig-Gen. Alade Adedigba (retd.) revealed that Governor Dapo Abiodun had approved the recruitment of an additional 1,000 operatives to strengthen the outfit. Similarly, Osun State Commander, Adekunle Omoyele, announced plans to recruit 1,000 new personnel, urging the government to allow Amotekun operatives to carry sophisticated arms.
Oyo State Amotekun Commandant, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), disclosed that 480 rangers had been trained and deployed across 25 local government areas to combat banditry and other crimes. The state has also intensified border patrols and partnered with community groups and traditional leaders for intelligence gathering.
In Ekiti State, Commander Brig-Gen. Olu Adewa (retd.) noted that while the corps operates with light arms due to existing legal constraints, there are ongoing plans to recruit more personnel. Ekiti’s Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for prioritising collaboration among security agencies and investing in technology to combat crime.
The Amotekun commanders collectively stressed the need for their personnel to be equipped with sophisticated weapons to match the firepower of the criminals they confront. However, they acknowledged that constitutional amendments would be required to permit the use of advanced weaponry.
This security push comes amidst concerning statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics, which revealed that Nigerians paid over ₦2.23 trillion as ransom between May 2023 and April 2024. The South-West alone recorded 6.9 million crime incidents during the period.
As Amotekun intensifies its operations, the commanders have called for additional resources and legislative backing to enhance their effectiveness in safeguarding the South-West region.
