The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has challenged Governor Seyi Makinde to provide details regarding the reported death of more than 200 operatives of the South-West Security Network, known as the Amotekun Corps, while on active duty.
Background of the controversy
Reports emerged quoting Makinde as stating that over 200 Amotekun operatives had died in service. The governor reportedly made this disclosure during a sympathy visit to communities in Oriire Local Government Area affected by recent bandit attacks and school abductions. However, he did not provide further details about the incidents leading to these casualties.
APC's reaction
The opposition party described the revelation as disturbing, alarming, and unacceptable. In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Olawale Sadare, the APC insisted that the state government owes residents and the families of the deceased operatives a full explanation of the circumstances surrounding the reported fatalities.
The party accused the governor of showing insufficient sensitivity to the families and loved ones of the affected operatives. According to the APC, the reported casualty figure raises serious questions about the security situation in the state and the operational conditions under which Amotekun personnel work.
Demand for transparency
The APC argued that such a high number of fatalities among security operatives suggests that criminal activities may be more widespread than officially acknowledged. It called for greater transparency from the government and urged improved collaboration between Amotekun and federal security agencies, alleging that a lack of effective synergy has weakened efforts to combat crime.
The party also called for improved welfare packages, regular training and retraining programmes, and better operational support for Amotekun personnel to reduce risks associated with their duties. It advised the governor to engage experienced security experts in tackling the state's security challenges and ensure that the corps is deployed strictly for its primary mandate of safeguarding lives and property.
The APC stressed the need for adequate protection for both security operatives and residents amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the state.
