‘AMOTEKUN Here To Stay’ – Outrage Greets Scrapping Of Security Outfit In South West
The federal government’s declaration of the Operation Amotekun as “illegal” and the consequent scrapping of the security outfit in South West have sparked outrage among Nigerians.
The government, through the Office of the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, on Tuesday, declared that the setting up of the outfit contravenes provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution.
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“The setting up of the paramilitary organization called “Amotekun” is illegal and runs contrary to the provisions of the Nigerian law. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) has established the Army, Navy and Airforce, including the Police and other numerous paramilitary organisations for the purpose of the defence of Nigeria,” read a statement issued by Umar Gwandu, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Relations to the AGF and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN).
“As a consequence of this, no State Government, whether singly or in a group has the legal right and competence to establish any form of organization or agency for the defence of Nigeria or any of its constituent parts. This is sanctioned by the provision of Item 45 of the Second Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) authorizing the Police and other Federal government security services established by law to maintain law and order.
“The law will take its natural course in relation to excesses associated with organization, administration and participation in “Amotekun” or continuous association with it as an association.”
The security outfit had been set up by governors from the six states that make up the South West geopolitical zones – Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states – to curb crime in the region. Amotekun was launched on January 9, 2020.
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The resolution to set up the outfit was reached by the South West leaders after suspected herdsmen shot dead Funke Olakunri, the daughter of Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, on the Ondo-Ore road in June, 2019.
Meanwhile, some Nigerians have taken to Twitter to voice their rejection of the move, saying “Amotekun is here to stay”.
One of the Twitter users (@BusayoSHONDE), wrote: “FG declares Amotekun illegal. You can’t stop a laudable initiative and idea because of partisan, nepotistic, tribalistic or authoritarian reasons and expect to go Scot free. I sensed this coming when 3 governors loyal to one landlord were absent at the inauguration.”
Below are other Twitter reactions:
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Who cares about what FG thinks about Amotekun? FG is happy that Nigerians are been kidnapped, killed by criminals and robbed of our properties since the leaders have security for themselves. Only a mad government will think of not securing its citizens!
— Bolasunkanmi (@rasaqsunky) January 14, 2020
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