The Ondo State House of Assembly has called on the state government to reinforce the state’s Security Network, known as the “Amotekun” Corps, to better combat criminal activities across the state.
This appeal was made by the Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji, following a deliberation on a matter of public interest during the assembly session on Thursday.
The Speaker urged the government to provide the necessary logistics and sufficient funding to ensure that the Amotekun Corps can effectively secure lives and property in the state.
During the session, Oladiji expressed concern over the recent killing of two farmers in the Akoko area, allegedly by suspected herdsmen.
He condemned the incident, noting that it was particularly distressing given the state’s reputation for peace.
As representatives of the people, he emphasized that the assembly members could not stand by idly but must seek solutions to curb criminal activities in the state.
The Speaker also praised the Amotekun Corps for their efforts, passing a vote of confidence in the organization.
He suggested the establishment of a dedicated unit of forest rangers within the corps to patrol and secure forests throughout the state, further calling on other security agencies to collaborate with Amotekun in safeguarding lives and property even as he also urged residents to provide useful information to security forces.
He affirmed that the House of Assembly would continue to support Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in his commitment to ensuring the safety of the state’s citizens and their property.
Earlier in the session, Mr. Raymond Daodu, representing Akoko South West Constituency I, stressed the urgency and importance of the deliberation, noting that the state’s security infrastructure was gradually deteriorating and required immediate attention.
He expressed concern that farmers could be killed while working to sustain the state’s economy.
Dr. Christopher Ogunlana, representing Irele Constituency, called for a restructuring of the Amotekun Corps, emphasizing the need to apprehend the killer herdsmen.
He also advocated for improved coordination among security agencies to address the herdsmen’s activities in the state.
Mr. Rotimi Abitogun, representing Akure South Constituency II, highlighted the seriousness of the insecurity issue and urged the government to take proactive measures.
In his contribution, Mr. Fatai Atere of Akoko North-West Constituency suggested that all motorcycles in the state should be registered as a crime prevention measure and recommended that security personnel be stationed at strategic locations.
Olatunji Oshati, representing Ose Constituency, called for stronger local government administration to establish vigilante groups that could function as local police to address security challenges.
Additionally, the House of Assembly passed a bill to amend the Ondo State House of Assembly Service Commission Law of 2021.
