By Bankole Orimisan
Mounting allegations of abuse, harassment, and operational excesses by operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, are raising serious concerns over accountability in Ondo State’s security architecture, casting a shadow on the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Established as a grassroots security initiative to complement conventional security agencies in tackling kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across the South-West, Amotekun initially enjoyed widespread public support.
However, a series of controversial incidents over the past year has triggered growing criticism, with residents, civil society groups, and legal experts warning that the outfit risks drifting from its core mandate.
The latest incident, which occurred at a fuel station in Akure a few days ago, has further inflamed public sentiment. Eyewitness accounts alleged that Amotekun operatives assaulted civilians following a dispute, reportedly manhandling individuals and disrupting activities at the station. Though official details remain limited, videos circulating online have drawn widespread condemnation, with many describing the conduct as excessive and unprofessional.
For many residents, the incident was not surprising but rather the latest in a string of troubling encounters involving the corps.
Across parts of Akure, Owo, and Ondo town, complaints have persisted about aggressive enforcement tactics, including harassment at checkpoints, arbitrary arrests, and physical intimidation. Commercial drivers and motorcyclists, in particular, have repeatedly alleged extortion and heavy-handed treatment.
A commercial bus driver operating within Akure metropolis recounted his experience: “They stop you for no clear reason, and if you question them, it can escalate quickly. People comply out of fear, not respect.”
Similarly, a trader in Oja-Oba market said residents are becoming increasingly wary. “We supported Amotekun because of insecurity, but now people are afraid of them too. That is not what we signed up for,” she said.
Security analysts note that such developments reflect a broader challenge associated with sub-national security outfits operating with limited oversight and evolving operational structures.
According to a Lagos-based security expert Adeogun Adeyemi, “The idea behind Amotekun is commendable, but the execution must be constantly reviewed. Without strict discipline, continuous training, and clear rules of engagement, there is always the risk of abuse.”
Incidents dating back to 2025 have also contributed to the growing concerns. In several reported cases, residents accused operatives of unlawful detention and excessive use of force while handling suspects. In some communities, there have been allegations of property damage during raids and operations, though these claims have often not been officially confirmed.
While Amotekun has recorded notable successes particularly in intelligence gathering and supporting conventional security agencies in curbing kidnapping and rural banditry—critics argue that these gains risk being overshadowed by misconduct.
Legal practitioners have also raised red flags over the implications of unchecked operations.
A human rights lawyer in Akure said, “Security must not come at the expense of citizens’ rights. When operatives begin to act outside the law, it undermines the legitimacy of the entire system.”
He added that there is an urgent need for clear accountability mechanisms, including independent complaint channels and transparent disciplinary procedures.
The situation presents a delicate challenge for Governor Aiyedatiwa, whose administration has prioritised security as a key governance agenda. Since assuming office, the governor has emphasised strengthening local security frameworks and enhancing collaboration among agencies.
However, analysts say that sustaining public trust will depend not just on improving security outcomes but also on ensuring that those tasked with maintaining order operate within the bounds of the law.
“The credibility of any security initiative lies in its professionalism,” another policy analyst noted. “If the public begins to fear the enforcers, then the system is failing.”
Civil society organisations are now calling for urgent reforms, including better training, stricter supervision, and psychological evaluation of operatives. They also advocate for the integration of human rights education into operational protocols.
A youth leader in Akure stressed the importance of immediate action. “Government must act now. If these excesses continue, it will erode the confidence people have in the security system.”
Efforts to reach officials of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State for comments on recent incidents were unsuccessful as of press time.
However, in previous statements, the agency has maintained that it operates within the law and remains committed to protecting lives and property.
Despite these assurances, the perception gap between the corps and the public appears to be widening.
For many observers, the recent fuel station incident has become symbolic of a deeper issue one that goes beyond isolated misconduct to questions about institutional control, training, and accountability.
Stakeholders warn that failure to address these concerns could not only damage the reputation of Amotekun but also undermine the broader objective of community-based security in the region.
As Ondo navigates its security challenges, the task before the Aiyedatiwa administration is clear: restore discipline within the ranks of Amotekun, rebuild public trust, and ensure that the pursuit of security does not come at the cost of justice and civil rights.
The coming weeks may prove critical in determining whether the government can rein in the excesses and reposition the corps as a professional and trusted security partner—or risk allowing public confidence to erode further.
Article written by By Bankole Orimisan, a journalist based in Lagos.
