Osun Assembly Demands Immediate Reopening of Amotekun Offices, Warns Against Political Interference
- Lawmakers decry ‘constitutional breach,’ summon security chiefs for probe
The Osun State House of Assembly has condemned the forceful sealing of the operational offices of the Osun State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, describing the action as unconstitutional and dangerous to state security.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Assembly said the move by federal security operatives was “constitutionally offensive” and “a dangerous precedent,” warning that it amounted to an unlawful interference in the affairs of a state-created institution.
The lawmakers emphasised that the Amotekun Corps was established under the Osun State Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps Law 2020 to complement the police and other security agencies in combating kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes.
“It is deeply troubling and constitutionally offensive that an agency created by law and funded by the Osun State Government could be summarily shut down without consultation with the State Government or the House of Assembly which enacted its enabling legislation,” the statement read.
The House warned that any lapses in security resulting from the disruption of Amotekun’s activities would rest squarely on the Nigeria Police Force and other federal agencies responsible for the closure.
Lawmakers also expressed concern over allegations of political interference reportedly involving Senator Francis Fadahunsi and former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, describing such claims—if proven—as “reckless and a betrayal of public trust.”
While commiserating with families affected by the recent Akinlalu incident that led to the arrest of some Amotekun operatives, the Assembly insisted that any disciplinary investigations must follow due process and not serve as an excuse to cripple a state institution.
The Assembly issued a six-point resolution, demanding the immediate reopening of all Amotekun offices, a legislative investigation into the incident within seven days, and a firm warning against politicising security matters in the state.
“Security is not a political bargaining chip. The lives of our people are not pawns on any chessboard of political ambition,” the statement concluded.
Sodiq Yusuf is a trained media practitioner and journalist with considerable years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital journalism. His interests cover a wide range of causes in politics, governance, sports, community development, and good governance.
