No Deaths Recorded In Osun Amotekun Recruitment Training – Corps Chairman.
The Osun Amotekun Corps has dismissed claims of fatalities during its ongoing recruitment training, assuring the public that all applicants who experienced health issues have received medical attention and are recovering.
Addressing a press conference at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede on Friday, the Chairman of the Corps’ Board, AIG Wale Abass (Rtd), refuted allegations of political bias in the recruitment process, describing them as unfounded and malicious.
False Claims and Political Exploitation
Abass stated that reports suggesting three cadets had died during training were entirely false. He insisted that those who had been unconscious during the exercise were now in stable condition.
“It is not true that three people died in the camp. Those who were unconscious during training are now recovering. These false claims are attempts to exploit the situation for political gain,” he asserted.
The Corps’ response follows the circulation of a video online alleging that cadets had lost their lives and that their names had been replaced with those of politically connected individuals. However, Abass dismissed these claims as baseless and politically motivated.
Strict Adherence to Recruitment Standard
Addressing concerns over the recruitment process, Abass emphasised that the exercise was entirely transparent, with no consideration for political affiliations.
“The Osun Amotekun Corps has always adhered to the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and fairness. The recruitment process was rigorous, involving an online application, document verification, physical screening, and fitness tests. Only the 1,000 candidates who successfully passed these stages were invited to the training camp,” he explained.
He also clarified reports that unqualified individuals had gained access to the camp. “Some individuals who were not selected managed to enter the camp, while others who had been chosen arrived late. Immediate steps were taken to rectify the situation, ensuring that only qualified candidates remained,” he stated.
Training Policies and Safety Concerns
Abass also addressed a viral video showing a woman arriving at the camp with a breastfeeding infant, stressing that paramilitary training does not permit individuals with health conditions or childcare responsibilities to remain in camp.
“This is standard practice to ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations. The Corps cannot compromise on these regulations,” he noted.
He further urged the public to disregard misleading reports and trust in the integrity of the Amotekun Corps.
Trainees Recovering, Disqualified Cadets Still at Camp
In separate interviews, some trainees who had fallen unconscious during the training confirmed they had received medical attention and were recovering well.
Meanwhile, some disqualified cadets have refused to leave the camp, hoping they would be reconsidered.
Despite the controversy, Abass reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to maintaining professionalism and serving the people of Osun State without bias.
“We remain dedicated to our mission of protecting and serving Osun State. We will not be distracted by the malicious actions of a few individuals seeking to damage our reputation,” he concluded.
