The Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has called on non-indigenes residing in Ondo State to partner with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to strengthen efforts at combating crime.
Akogun Adeleye made the call during a courtesy visit by leaders of non-indigenous communities to the Amotekun Command Headquarters in Akure.
He assured residents of the corps’ unwavering commitment to protecting lives, property and businesses across the state.
Akogun Adeleye said effective security requires the support and cooperation of all residents, stressing that criminality can only be defeated through collective vigilance.
“My appeal is that you should work hand in hand with security agencies. We are prepared to protect you and your businesses. Ondo State is not a place where criminality should thrive. Since criminals know we will eventually apprehend them, it is better for everyone to join hands with us,” Adeleye said.
The Amotekun Commander appreciated the delegation for the visit and announced that regular engagements with non-indigenous communities would be held every three months to strengthen collaboration and improve intelligence gathering.
He noted that insecurity remains a collective responsibility, urging parents and guardians to monitor the activities of their children and wards. According to him, every community has a duty to identify and expose criminal elements rather than shield them.
“Do not cover up for armed robbers, kidnappers or other criminal elements. If you protect them today, they may eventually destroy the same community you are trying to defend,” he warned.
Akogun Adeleye also urged community leaders to provide relevant information on residents within their settlements, describing intelligence sharing as a critical tool in the fight against crime.
The Amotekun Commander commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and lauded Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for equipping the corps with modern security facilities, including a Command and Control Centre, to enhance its operations.
“We have accepted you as members of our family. Nobody should come into your communities without your knowledge. We need your cooperation and information to make Ondo State safer for everyone,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the non-indigenous communities, the Renewed Hope Ambassador for Non-Indigenes in Ondo State, Alhaji Abdulkadri Adinoyi, commended the Amotekun Corps for its professionalism and thorough investigations. He pledged the continued support of non-indigenous communities and appealed for greater inclusion during future recruitment exercises.
Also speaking, the Royal Leader of the non-indigenous communities, HRH Deborah Akuosun, thanked Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for prioritising security in the state and commended the Amotekun Commander and his personnel for their courage, dedication and commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The delegation comprised leaders of various Nigerian ethnic communities resident in Ondo State.
