The new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 17, Mr Ene Okon has commended the Ondo State Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, for his doggedness in the creation of the State Security Network also known as Amotekun.
Okon said Akeredolu had laid a solid foundation for community policing with the creation of Amotekun and the dogged role he played.
He gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Governor in his office, Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital.
He said, “I know Ondo was one of the endangered states in term of farmers/herders clashes. But the story has changed. Ondo is now one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. You have made the job of the police and other security agencies simple. I know I am coming here to rest because you have done most of the job.
“I have been reading and hearing your doggedness on the creation and operation of Amotekun. Some people may have a different perception about Amotekun but you have enhanced community policing through Amotekun. Amotekun is one of the veritable organs for community policing. It is a great bridge between the police and the community.
“You have created a very good atmosphere for me to work here because you have done your job as a Chief Security Officer. I am to work with you in conjunction with the Commissioner of Police. I assure you that we are going to move Ondo to the next level securitywise,” he said.
AIG Okon also appreciated Governor Akeredolu’s effort in the creation of the Zone 17 and thanked him for the numerous works done in the zonal headquarters.
Governor Akeredolu, in his remarks, explained that Amotekun was not established to compete but to work and complement the existing security agencies.
“Amotekun is established by law. Let us all work together. It is clear that the essence of creation of Amotekun is community policing.
“And since the number of police is being depleted daily and the level of crime is increasing, it will be difficult to spread out with your limited number. Since police can not be everywhere, Amotekun is here for collaboration,” the Governor said.
Speaking on farmers/herders clashes, Akeredolu reiterated that the ban on open grazing still subsists, saying the law will be enforced when it is finally put in place.
