Don’t violate human rights, Abiodun tells Amotekun operatives

Poised with the determination to make Ogun State, a safe haven for businesses to thrive and residents living without fear, the Ogun Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has handed over 13 operational vehicles to the State Security Network codenamed Amotekun.

While warning operatives to conduct themselves in a civil manner in the cause of discharging their duties, with the highest level of integrity and not violating human rights.

Abiodun represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Toyin Taiwo, at the handing over ceremony and tour of new projects held at the Command’s headquarters on Friday, in Abeokuta, equally warned them against abuse of power.

He implored them to protect lives and property of residents and not to harrass, intimidate or extort the people.

“ These operational vehicles symbolise our unwavering dedication to a safer Ogun State. However, beyond the tools and the equipment, the effectiveness of our security operatives lies in the discipline, professionalism, and intelligence of the officers who operate them. I therefore charge members of the Amotekun operatives to conduct themselves with the highest level of integrity, respect for human rights and their commitment to duty.

“The Amotekun operative, as a critical arm of our security apparatus, has continued to play a pivotal role in completing the efforts of other sister security agencies in tackling crime, particularly in the area of intelligence gathering, community policing and rapid response operations.

“Your uniform is a symbol of trust and so do not betray the trust and confidence the public reposed in you. Earn the people’s trust and you will get more of their support. The strength of amotekun lies in gathering local intelligence, remaining vigilant, collaborating with the local community leaders and reporting suspicious activities promptly.

Reiterating his administration’s dedication to protecting people’s lives and property, Abiodun added that peace and security are his top priorities and that they form the cornerstone of any significant progress.

“ It is about strengthening the security architecture of the state, it is about affirming our commitment to the safety of life and property of the people of the state, that we prioritise peace and security, which is the bedrock of any meaningful development.

“As you know, we have zero tolerance for abuse, so you are not expected to abuse your uniform as you go, discharging your duties. The uniform confers on your trust that must never be betrayed. Security is not about oppression; neither is its opportunity to extort or harass the people or abuse powers given to you as an operative of the Amotekun.

“Fleet of operational vehicles for the Amotekun in the state. It is about strengthening the security architecture of the state, it is about affirming our commitment to the safety of life and property of the people of the state, that we prioritise peace and security, which is the bedrock of any meaningful development,” he added

The Commandant of Amotekun, Brigadier Alade Adedigba (rtd) lauded Governor Abiodun for his support, dedication and commitment to the safety of the life and property of Ogun citizens.

He also thanked the governor for approving the recruitment of additional 500 operatives and for donating more operational vehicles to improve their operations.