Yuletide: Amotekun Corps showcases strength, readiness to ensure crime-free State
Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of this year’s Christmas and New year celebration, a powerful show of force unfolded, commanding the attention of all who witnessed it on the streets of Abeokuta. The Amotekun Corps, the state’s dedicated security outfit, organized a parade to demonstrate its strength, capability, and readiness to protect the people.
The convoy was an impressive sight: an array of vehicles and motorcycles moved in unison, their engines and sirens roaring as they passed through the streets. The commanding officer, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (Rtd.), in an interview with pressmen, said, “The objective of this display is clear. We are showcasing our capabilities in terms of manpower, materials, and equipment. This is to reassure the public that when issues arise, we can respond swiftly and decisively. Today, we have demonstrated exactly that.”
He continued, highlighting the unique challenges of the festive season: “During this period, there will be a massive movement of people—organizing parties, attending religious events, and celebrating with loved ones. Unfortunately, such times often attract criminal activities and miscreants. To prevent this, we must be proactive. We are re-strategizing our security approach to ensure that any potential security breaches are nipped in the bud.”
The Amotekun Corps, he emphasized, has zero tolerance for criminality: “Our motto is simple: ‘If you see something, say something.’ We are the closest security agency to the community, and we are always ready to respond swiftly. Collaboration with other security agencies is also key to our strategy.”
The officer also stressed the continuity of their operations: “A show of force is not a one-time event. It’s a continuous exercise, conducted whenever the need arises. This renewed hope in Amotekun is courtesy of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who has provided us with the necessary equipment, materials, and personnel to carry out our mission.”
He noted recent developments within the Corps: “We have just completed our recruitment exercise, and training will commence in two months. With more boots on the ground, there is no doubt that Amotekun will grow into a robust force capable of swift responses to any security threat.”
Concluding his address, the officer expressed gratitude for the support received from the state government: “With the logistics and manpower provided by the governor, it is our duty to put these resources to use. Our mission is to make this state crime-free and to ensure the security of lives and properties.”
As the parade came to a close, the message was clear: the Amotekun Corps was ready, determined, and well-equipped to protect the community, giving the people confidence in a safer and more secure future.
