Osun Assembly Condemns Sealing of Amotekun Offices, Calls for Immediate Reopening

The Osun State House of Assembly has expressed serious concern over the forceful closure of operational offices of the Osun State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, by federal security operatives.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Assembly described the development as “constitutionally offensive” and warned that it sets a dangerous precedent. The lawmakers emphasized that Amotekun was a lawful creation of the state legislature and cannot be shut down without due process.

The statement highlighted that the Corps, established under the Osun State Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps Law 2020, has been instrumental in supporting conventional security agencies to tackle kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across the state. Since its creation, the outfit has contributed significantly to safeguarding rural and border communities.

“It is deeply troubling and constitutionally offensive that an agency created by law and funded by the Osun State Government could be summarily shut down without consultation with the State Government or the House of Assembly,” the statement read.

The lawmakers warned that any security breaches resulting from the disruption of Amotekun’s operations would be the responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies, stressing that the safety of residents must not be compromised by administrative or political actions.

The Assembly also expressed alarm over reports suggesting political interference by Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi in collaboration with former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, describing such allegations, if true, as “reckless, abusive, and a betrayal of public trust.”

While sympathizing with families affected by the recent Akinlalu incident that led to the arrest of some Amotekun operatives, the Assembly insisted that any allegations of misconduct must be investigated transparently and in accordance with the law, and should not serve as a pretext to undermine state institutions.

The House further issued several resolutions, including a demand for the immediate reopening of Amotekun offices, a reaffirmation of the Corps’ legal status, and a directive for its Committee on Security to investigate the matter within seven days.

“Security is not a political bargaining chip. The lives of our people are not pawns on any chessboard of political ambition,” the statement concluded.