By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission has called for what it described as a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s security architecture by decentralising policing in the country.
The Commission made the call in a statement to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun.
Director-General of the Commission, Dr Seye Oyeleye, while commending the feat said the establishment of the Amotekun marks a transformative milestone in Nigeria’s security landscape.
He said Amotekun has emerged as a beacon of innovative community policing, demonstrating remarkable success in fostering regional security and integration across Nigeria’s Southwest region.
Noting that Amotekun has definitively silenced critics and exceeded expectations, Oyeleye said the security agency track record has challenged initial concerns about potential misuse for political purposes or ethnic agenda.
He added that Amotekun in the last five years has established itself as a model of professionalism, earning widespread community trust through its commitment to protecting all residents, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.
Oyeleye said “The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission today commemorates the fifth anniversary of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, marking a transformative milestone in Nigeria’s security landscape.
“Launched in Ibadan on January 9, 2020, Amotekun has emerged as a beacon of innovative community policing, demonstrating remarkable success in fostering regional security and integration across Nigeria’s Southwest Region.
“This first-of-its-kind security network, midwived by DAWN Commission with the backing of the Southwest Governors Forum (SWGF), has proven to be a game-changer in addressing local security challenges.
“Five years on, Amotekun has definitively silenced critics and exceeded expectations. The agency has shown that state-level security agencies can operate professionally and effectively while maintaining the trust of local communities.
“Amotekun’s track record has challenged initial concerns about potential misuse for political purposes or ethnic agenda. Instead, it has established itself as a model of professionalism, earning widespread community trust through its commitment to protecting all residents, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.”
Commending the operatives and the Southwest governors for their support and commitment, Oyeleye said the Amotekun model has proven that decentralised policing can effectively address community security needs while maintaining professional standards.
“The success of Amotekun demonstrates the viability of state-led security initiatives in Nigeria’s federal structure and provides a template for other regions considering similar security frameworks.
“DAWN Commission particularly commends the dedication of Amotekun Commanders and operatives, some of whom have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. Their bravery and commitment, despite a challenging environment, continue to ensure the safety and security of the Southwest Region.
“Our special commendation also goes to the Governors of Southwest States for their unwavering support and funding for this critical agency”, he added.
