Paragraph 1: The South-West region of Nigeria is experiencing a surge in banditry and other criminal activities, prompting the Amotekun Corps, a regional security network, to mobilize over 2,000 personnel to combat the threat. States like Ogun and Osun are leading the effort, aiming to recruit 1,000 operatives each, while Oyo State has already deployed 480 forest rangers. This mobilization comes as a response to the escalating incidences of kidnapping and other illicit activities perpetrated by bandits originating from Sahel countries and local criminal elements. The aim of the operation is to flush out these criminals from the forests and reserves they use as hideouts across the South-West.
Paragraph 2: The gravity of the security situation is underscored by a recent National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, which reveals a staggering N2.23 trillion paid in ransom by Nigerians between May 2023 and April 2024. This alarming figure reflects the widespread impact of kidnapping across the country. The NBS survey further indicates that an estimated 51.89 million crime incidents occurred during this period, with the South-West accounting for 6.9 million cases. While the North-West and North-Central regions recorded higher numbers of incidents, the South-West’s figures highlight the urgent need for increased security measures.
Paragraph 3: The Amotekun Corps is taking a proactive stance against these security challenges, with commanders across the region outlining their strategies. Adetunji Adeleye, Ondo State Amotekun Commander and Chairman of Amotekun Commanders in the South-West, confirmed the deployment of “Amotekun rangers” to evict bandits from forests within the state. While emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards bandits in Ondo State, Adeleye highlighted the need for greater support in terms of weaponry and other security hardware, particularly technology for tracking criminals and improving intelligence gathering. He stressed the need for technological advancements to enhance their operational capabilities.
Paragraph 4: In Ogun State, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (retd), the Amotekun Corps Commander, confirmed the deployment of over 1,000 personnel to combat bandits occupying the state’s forests. With the support of Governor Dapo Abiodun, plans are underway to recruit an additional 1,000 operatives to bolster the corps’ efficiency. In Osun State, Commander Adekunle Omoyele announced plans to recruit approximately 1,000 new operatives to supplement the existing 320 personnel. Omoyele also advocated for Amotekun personnel to be equipped with sophisticated weapons to effectively confront heavily armed criminals.
Paragraph 5: Colonel Olayinka Olayanju (retd), Commandant of Oyo State Amotekun, detailed the deployment of 480 forest rangers across 25 local government areas in October 2024. These rangers are specifically tasked with addressing kidnapping, banditry, and other illegal forest activities. Collaborative efforts with Community-Based Security Oriented Groups (CBSOGs) have intensified border patrols, and traditional leaders are playing a vital role in surveillance and intelligence gathering. Governor Seyi Makinde has mobilized all security agencies, including the military, to be on high alert.
Paragraph 6: A recurring theme across the South-West is the call for Amotekun personnel to be equipped with sophisticated weapons. Commanders like Olayanju in Oyo State have reiterated this request, acknowledging that such approval requires amendments to national laws. In Ekiti State, Brigadier General Olu Adewa (retd) emphasized that the Amotekun Act already provides for the use of light arms, and that recruitment of additional personnel is pending government approval. Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, highlighted the state government’s investments in technology, collaboration among security agencies, and the deployment of Agro Rangers and Peace Corps to enhance security. He also mentioned Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s efforts in securing support from federal security agencies, leading to the deployment of military personnel to strategic locations within the state and the implementation of various other security measures. These efforts demonstrate a multi-pronged approach to combating security challenges in the region.
