By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The Ogun State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, has declared total war on all criminal elements operating within the state, assuring residents and travellers of adequate security during the festive period and beyond.

The Corps Commander, Brigadier-General Alade Adedigba (Rtd), made this declaration on Tuesday during a “show of force” exercise held around Abeokuta, the state capital. According to him, the exercise was designed to demonstrate the readiness and operational capacity of the corps in tackling crime and maintaining peace across Ogun State.

Adedigba explained that the operation was a sequel to an earlier joint and coordinated show of force carried out by security agencies from Ogun, Oyo and Lagos states, which commenced from Berger and extended to Ibadan. He assured residents and motorists that it is safe to travel across the state, stressing in particular that the Sagamu–Ore Expressway is secure.

He noted that the decision to hold the show of force in Abeokuta was strategic, adding that similar exercises would be extended to other local government areas. The primary objective, he said, is to reassure residents and indigenes that Ogun State remains safe and peaceful despite the activities of criminal elements.

The Amotekun commander commended the high level of synergy and collaboration among the various security agencies, describing it as top-notch. He said the exercise underscored the corps’ preparedness to respond swiftly to intelligence reports, especially during the festive season when there is an increased influx of people through the state’s entry and exit points. As part of proactive measures, additional operatives and patrol vehicles have been deployed across strategic locations.

Adedigba disclosed that Amotekun personnel are fully stationed from Ita-Oshin towards Sango, including the interchange leading to the Lagos Expressway, as well as Onigari and the Ogun–Oyo boundary. He added that all inlets and outlets of the state are effectively covered to ensure residents can “sleep with their eyes closed,” warning that while criminals may attempt unlawful acts, Ogun State is not a safe haven for them.

He further appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for providing the necessary support to security agencies, saying the backing leaves no excuse for failure in the discharge of their duties. On the ongoing conversation about Amotekun evolving into a state police, the commander described it as a step in the right direction, noting that Ogun State is adequately prepared to commence full operations immediately if approval is granted.