By Adesakin Adefemi
The All Progressives Congress in Oyo State has described the reported loss of more than 200 members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun Corps, as saddening, alarming, and unacceptable.
In a statement issued in Ibadan on Thursday by Publicity Secretary Olawale Sadare, the APC called on Governor Seyi Makinde to provide more details on the development and ensure the protection of corps officials and residents.
Makinde had disclosed on May 30 during a visit to Oriire Local Government Area that over 200 Amotekun personnel lost their lives in active service recently. The visit followed an attack by suspected bandits on May 15 that killed two people and led to the abduction of more than 40 school children and teachers.
Reacting, the Oyo APC expressed dismay over what it called the governor’s lack of empathy, saying he broke the news with flippancy and insensitivity, as if referring to livestock lost to epidemics.
The party said the disclosure shows the administration does not attach enough importance to the lives of the people. It questioned why the governor withheld information on the casualty figures and spoke about the deaths without regard for the feelings of families and loved ones.
APC argued that recording such high fatalities among the security team indicates that crime rates in the state have reached a peak while the government covers up details. It also raised concerns about conditions of service within the Amotekun Corps.
According to the party, its discreet findings showed that Makinde had failed to ensure proper synergy between Amotekun and federal security agencies due to ego and poor coordination. It urged the governor to involve security experts in the fight against crime.
The APC also criticized the deployment of Amotekun members to guard hotels, properties, and businesses belonging to the governor’s friends and political associates. It called for an end to the practice.
The party recommended that only competent personnel be recruited, with training, retraining, and adequate welfare packages put in place to reduce risk and boost morale among corps members.
