Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced that the state is prepared to establish its own police force, leveraging the manpower of more than 6,000 personnel from the Ogun State Security Network (Amotekun) and the So-Safe Corps. The governor disclosed this development while addressing the 50th anniversary celebration of Ereke Day in Ikenne, Ikenne Local Government Area, marking a significant step in the state's security architecture.
Abiodun, who chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Committee on State Police Creation and represents President Bola Tinubu on the committee, stated that the Ogun State House of Assembly’s approval of the state police initiative would facilitate a smooth transition. He emphasized that the existing operational experience and community-based structures of Amotekun and So-Safe would provide the necessary foundation for the new outfit, which he believes will significantly enhance the protection of lives and property.
“Between Amotekun and So-Safe Corps, we have over 6,000 personnel. We are ready for the Ogun State Police Command, and that will make the difference in protecting the lives and property of our people,” Abiodun said.
The governor stressed that security is a prerequisite for economic prosperity, investment, and sustainable development, urging sustained collaboration between communities and security agencies to ensure stability. In related infrastructural developments, Abiodun directed the immediate reconstruction of the Delabo-Ikenne Road, a project intended to improve accessibility, enhance connectivity, and stimulate local economic activities.
Reflecting on the golden jubilee of Ereke Day, Abiodun described the 50-year milestone as a testament to the unity, shared heritage, and collective determination of the people of Ikenne. He commended traditional rulers and the Ikenne Traditional Council of Chiefs for preserving the community’s cultural identity, while praising the Ikenne Community Development Association for mobilizing resources to address developmental needs. The governor noted that the event has evolved beyond a cultural celebration into a platform for intellectual engagement and institutional development.
Providing an update on his administration’s progress, Abiodun disclosed that more than 1,700 kilometers of roads have been constructed and rehabilitated across the state, including over 40 roads in the Remoland area. He highlighted Ikenne’s historical significance, noting its association with prominent national figures such as the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin. While acknowledging the government's role in creating an enabling environment, he emphasized that sustainable development requires active participation and ownership by the people.
In his closing remarks, Abiodun urged the youth of Ikenne to shun political violence and resist attempts by politicians to use them as instruments of intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections. He cautioned that no political ambition is worth sacrificing the community’s peace or individual futures, advocating instead for electoral contests based on ideas, credible leadership, and issue-based campaigns. The governor also appealed to traditional rulers, professionals, and diaspora indigenes to continue their contributions to the development of their ancestral community.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
