Ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Osun Amotekun Corps has expressed its readiness to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for all citizens and visitors in the state.
The corps said it would be deploying 300 personnel across various strategic locations to maintain order and prevent criminal activities during the period.
The Commander, Omoyele Adekunle, disclosed in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the agency, Yusuf Abass on Friday that a comprehensive security plan has been put in place.
“This plan includes robust intelligence gathering, enhanced visibility patrols, and collaborative efforts with various security agencies to ensure the safety of the public throughout the festive season,” the statement noted.
According to Adekunle, the deployed operatives will conduct extensive foot, vehicular, and motorcycle patrols across the entire state, with a focus on both urban and rural areas.
He said the strategic deployment aims to deter criminal elements and detect and prevent any illegal activities in all corners of the state.
“Additionally, the patrols will extend to the 22 entry points to the state, ensuring the vigilant monitoring of all boundaries to intercept potential criminal threats,” he said.
“Our mission is to create a visible and formidable security presence across the state. We are particularly focused on making sure that the festive season remains free from criminal incidents. With our personnel on the ground and intelligence sources actively monitoring potential threats, we are confident that Osun will remain secure during the yuletide period,” he added.
The corps commander also urged all residents and visitors to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
Dishing out security tips to residents, he emphasised the importance of avoiding unnecessary exposure of valuable items and remaining aware of their surroundings, especially during the busy holiday period.
Adekunle also advised residents to ensure that their homes and immediate surroundings are secured. He urged the public to clear bushes or obstructed areas around their homes to enhance visibility and safety.
“Before approaching your gate or returning home, always check the surroundings to ensure no suspicious persons are lurking. It is important to stay alert and cautious, especially during this time,” he admonished citizens.
He announced that a special collaboration between Osun Amotekun and Ondo Amotekun has been established to enhance security across state borders.
“The joint patrols will involve Ondo Amotekun operatives moving from Owena Ijesa through Osu to the Gbongan Roundabout, while Osun Amotekun will patrol from Gbongan through Osu to Futa Junction in Akure. This partnership is aimed at securing both states from external threats, reinforcing the commitment to collaborative security efforts,” he said.
