Osun Amotekun Dismisses Allegations, Reaffirms Commitment to Professionalism and Rule of Law
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
The Osun Amotekun Corps has dismissed allegations levelled against it by some political actors during a recent meeting with the Inspector-General of Police, describing the claims as false, malicious and politically driven.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Corps Public Relations Officer, CSA Yusuf Idowu Abass, the security outfit said the allegations were aimed at portraying Amotekun as a criminal organisation and casting doubt on its professionalism and operational integrity.
The Corps said it ordinarily would not respond to what it described as politically motivated accusations, but noted that it was compelled to set the record straight in the interest of public confidence and security in Osun State.
“The attempt to label the Osun Amotekun Corps as a criminal organisation is not only false and malicious but also a deliberate effort to undermine one of the most effective community based security institutions established to complement conventional security agencies in safeguarding lives and property across Osun State,” the statement read.
It maintained that since its establishment under the laws of Osun State, the Corps has carried out its statutory duties with discipline, professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law.
According to the statement, Amotekun operatives work in close collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies in intelligence gathering, crime prevention and emergency response.
It added that these collaborations have contributed significantly to efforts in tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal mining, cultism and other criminal activities across the state.
The Corps expressed concern over what it described as attempts to misinform the public and politicise security matters, especially through claims made before the Inspector-General of Police.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals have chosen the path of misinformation and political propaganda by attempting to paint the Corps in bad light before the nation’s highest police authority. Such actions do not serve the interests of security or public peace; rather, they distract from the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to support institutions working tirelessly to protect citizens,” it stated.
On concerns raised about its operational attire, the Corps clarified that all operations are conducted within approved guidelines and in line with applicable laws.
It further stated that its operational procedures, including the use of uniforms and equipment, are properly regulated, adding that at no time had its leadership authorised any unlawful practice capable of misleading the public or impersonating any security agency.
The Corps also welcomed the assurance reportedly given by the Inspector-General of Police that the allegations would be investigated, expressing confidence that a fair and evidence based review would clear any doubts.
“We are convinced that any fair and evidence-based review will expose the allegations for what they truly are—unsubstantiated claims lacking credible proof,” the statement added.
Amotekun urged political stakeholders to desist from politicising security issues, warning that such actions could undermine public trust and embolden criminal elements.
Reaffirming its commitment to its mandate, the Corps said it remains an apolitical institution dedicated to community policing, inter-agency cooperation, accountability and respect for human rights.
It also called on residents of Osun State to disregard the allegations and continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to assist in crime prevention and public safety.
The statement added that the Corps would remain focused on its constitutional responsibilities despite what it described as attempts to discredit its operations.