Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, has urged the federal government to enable the Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun, to carry AK-47s and other advanced weapons.
This, according to the governor, will allow them to be more successful in providing security for the people in their areas of operations.
The governor, who was represented by his Attorney General, Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo (SAN), made the remarks at the Nigeria Bar Association’s 2021 Law Week in Ibadan on Tuesday.
He claimed that Amotekun has been highly effective in providing security in the state, but that they could be even more effective if they were allowed to carry the same weapons as the criminals with whom they engage in gunfights do.
Makinde said, ” With the recent experience in Oyo State it has become necessary to call upon the Federal Government to recognise the need to upgrade the capacity of Amotekun in providing security.
“In Oyo State, Amotekun has become the first responder and this was demonstrated during the jailbreak in Oyo town where Amotekun suffered loss of lives because there was a disparity between the firepower of the Amotekun and the criminals.
“The South West Governors have resolved to call upon the Federal Government to allow for the increase capacity so that there can be meaningful role being played by Amotekun in provision of security.
“The era of facing criminals bearing AK47 and other weapons with sakabula ( Dane gun) and Pump Action is in modern time a ridiculous error.
“Therefore, Amotekun must be allowed to play the role that it can provide security because as of today the presence of Amotekun in all areas of Oyo State has brought about improved security that is being enjoyed.”
Chief Joe Gadzama (SAN), the event’s keynote speaker, stated the Constitution needed to be reviewed to allow for the creation of state police, which many people had requested.
He said “The problematic interplay of ethnicity, religion, and politics will continue to fuel ethnic militancy and religious movements. Since the 1980s, militancy and religious extremism have been a significant threat to this country, and there appears to be no end in sight.
“It is crucial to stress that religious, ethnic, and cultural variety do not always lead to violence; but, given the level of animosity, fear, and prejudice caused by these factors, it is believed that the law will not be able to address the issues on its own. The law’s provisions mean little or nothing to those responsible for enforcing compliance, and when laws are broken at will without consequence, there is a problem.”
