YCE Calls On Governor Aiyedatiwa To Strengthen Amotekun Corps.
The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has urged Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to reinforce the Western Security Network, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, to combat the rising insecurity in the state.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Engr. Oladipo Oyewole, and made available to The Guardian in Ibadan, the YCE expressed concern over the increasing incidents of killings, kidnappings, and other criminal activities in Ondo State. The group emphasised that strengthening local security outfits was crucial in tackling the security challenges facing the state.
“The YCE is appalled because Ondo State played a pivotal role in the formation of Amotekun. We hereby urge Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to reinforce Amotekun and other local security outfits for them to deal with all marauders who take pleasure in killing innocent people,” Oyewole stated.
The council highlighted that the Amotekun Corps was established to bridge the security gaps in the South-West region and had made significant strides in combating crime. However, the recent surge in violence has raised concerns about the effectiveness of security measures in the state.
“In view of the security challenges in the state, the Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) is urging the Ondo State Governor, H.E. Aiyedatiwa, to strengthen the Amotekun Corps so that it can deal more decisively with issues of insecurity,” Oyewole added.
He further stressed that security is central to governance and that urgent action is needed to restore peace and protect residents.
The call from the YCE follows growing protests by Ondo State residents over the rising cases of attacks by armed herdsmen and other criminal elements. The council’s statement reflects a broader concern about security across the South-West, with many advocating for increased support for regional security initiatives like Amotekun.
Governor Aiyedatiwa is yet to respond to the appeal, but many are hopeful that his administration will take decisive steps to reinforce security and safeguard the lives and property of citizens.