By Yusuf Idowu Abass
In the often politically charged atmosphere of Nigeria, state-level security initiatives like the Osun Amotekun Corps stand as a crucial bridge between the government and the people at the grassroots. Designed as a community-based security outfit with a clear mandate to protect lives and property, Amotekun has become an embodiment of localized safety, intelligence-driven patrol, and swift response to criminal activity. Unfortunately, it has also become a target for political brickbats—most recently, from elements of the opposition in Osun State.
It is important to state categorically that the Osun Amotekun Corps is not a political organization. It is a creation of law, backed by the Osun State House of Assembly and launched with the overwhelming support of the people. Its mission is simple yet critical: to complement federal security agencies by providing intelligence-led, community-grounded security interventions in all corners of the state. The Corps has shown a commendable level of professionalism and neutrality.
The recent outburst by some members of the opposition APC in the state, accusing the Corps of misconduct in the course of their duties, is both disappointing and dangerous. Their actions betray a political motive aimed at scoring cheap points by tarnishing the image of a security body that enjoys the trust of the people. At the heart of the controversy was the arrest of suspected hoodlums in Atakumosa East Local Government. Instead of probing the facts or seeking clarification, the opposition rushed to social media and other platforms to spin unfounded narratives—without regard for the evidence, which reportedly includes the seizure of firearms and dangerous weapons from the suspects.
This is not only unfair to the officers risking their lives daily to keep Osun safe, but it also attempts to sow seeds of public distrust in a security system that has proven itself effective and community-friendly. The Corps’ actions, based on credible intelligence, were entirely within the ambit of the law. It is therefore uncalled for to vilify them simply because their actions disrupted the interests of a few.
We must resist every attempt to politicize security matters. When a security outfit becomes the subject of politically motivated attacks, we undermine the very foundation of law and order. It is this kind of toxic partisanship that weakens institutions and emboldens criminality.
Let it be known: Osun Amotekun is not a tool of any political party. It belongs to the people of Osun—irrespective of party affiliation, religion, or ethnicity. Its loyalty lies with the rule of law, and it has never deviated from that responsibility. Those peddling falsehoods and misrepresenting its mission do so not for the benefit of the public but for selfish political gains. Such acts of sabotage must be roundly condemned by all right-thinking citizens.
In fact, rather than condemn the Corps, we should be celebrating its recent achievements. Under the leadership of Governor Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke and the capable supervision of AIG Wale Abbas (retd.), Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele (Corps Commander), and Field Commander Olusoji Benedict Akanni, Amotekun has grown in capacity and effectiveness. The recent recruitment of 1,150 new personnel is evidence of the state’s commitment to strengthening community policing and extending its reach to all 30 local government areas.
This expansion is not just symbolic; it is a strategic move to deepen security presence in vulnerable areas and ensure faster response times. These efforts deserve commendation—not condemnation.
The people of Osun State must continue to stand with the Amotekun Corps. They must see through the political propaganda and recognize the sincere efforts being made to ensure peace and safety in our communities. We must never allow false narratives to derail the progress being made. Instead, we should encourage transparency, accountability, and most importantly, unity in securing our common space.
Let those who seek to discredit the corps know that their attempts are not just an attack on an institution—they are an attack on the peace and stability of the state. We cannot afford to allow political interest to jeopardize the security of the people.
Osun Amotekun remains a shining example of what homegrown security solutions can look like. As long as it continues to operate within the bounds of legality and professionalism, the people will continue to rally behind it. No propaganda can tear down what the people themselves have built with trust, support, and collective vision.
In conclusion, I urge the general public to disregard the baseless allegations and focus instead on the good work being done by Amotekun. The corps’ unwavering commitment to peace, lawful conduct, and professional integrity remains intact and it deserves our support.
©Written by Yusuf Idowu Abass, a journalist, PR Expert and the Public Relations Officer of Osun Amotekun Corps