Adeleke Demands Police Lift Amotekun Ban to Fight Osun Crime Surge

Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on the Nigeria Police Force to lift the ban on the Osun Security Network Agency (Amotekun), stressing that the move is critical to addressing emerging security threats in the state.

The governor highlighted concerns that banditry and kidnappings in neighboring Kwara State are beginning to spill over into Osun, particularly in rural border communities. Adeleke warned that the ongoing ban on Amotekun has created a security gap, leaving residents vulnerable to criminal activities. Governor Adeleke also urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to release Amotekun officials currently in custody or charge them in court, noting that prolonged detention has further weakened the state’s security response. Amotekun has developed invaluable local expertise in containing rural criminality,” Adeleke said. “Its suspension handicaps Osun’s ability to respond independently to threats and gives criminals an opportunity to operate with impunity. Osun residents and security experts have welcomed Adeleke’s appeal, arguing that reinstating Amotekun is essential to safeguarding lives and property, particularly in border communities vulnerable to criminal infiltration.