In a moment of high honour and applause, the indomitable Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, fondly known as Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has been celebrated as a true defender of the land against banditry.
He was awarded the coveted title of “Atofiseogunran” (Brave Warrior) by the Oodua Youth Coalition, OYC in recognition of his fearless strides in safeguarding Ondo State and the Southwest.
As the award was handed over, President of the Oodua Youth Coalition, Ogbeni Oluyi Akintade Tayo, painted a vivid picture of Adeleye’s heroism, lauding him as a bulwark against the relentless threats of Fulani herdsmen and bandits, whose menace had been met with Adeleye’s unyielding resolve to restore peace.
The Coalition praised Adeleye’s efforts, describing him as a “worthy and a brave Warrior” who is successfully tackling security challenges and safeguarding the lives of farmers and residents.
In his acceptance speech, Adeleye expressed gratitude to the Coalition for upholding Yoruba culture and tradition, while extending his thanks to the Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his unwavering support of the Amotekun Corps.
“Many thought that the death of former Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, who played a leading role in the establishment of the security outfit would spell the end of the Corps, but with the continued support of Governor Aiyedatiwa, we have grown stronger and more fortified,” Adeleye stated.
He recalled the challenges faced during the early days of Amotekun’s establishment, recounting how the Corps tackled the menace of Fulani herdsmen and bandits who terrorised farmers and residents.
“We began with the arrest of 350 cows that destroyed farms in Ilara-Mokin and went on to receive over 5,000 petitions from farmers,” he said, highlighting the success of mediation efforts between farmers and herders that restored peace.
Adeleye further assured that the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 16 would be peaceful, predicting a landslide victory for Governor Aiyedatiwa, whose administration, he said, would continue to put smiles on the faces of residents of the Sunshine State.
Commending Adeleye’s leadership, President of the Coalition noted that his performance as Commander of Amotekun in Ondo State and as Chairman of Amotekun Commanders in the Southwest was remarkable, with outstanding results in fighting crime.
“Your achievements have compelled us to bestow this prestigious award of “Atofiseogunran” (A brave Warrior) upon you,” the Coalition president stated.
The OYC president further hinted, that Akogun Adeleye’s recognition follows a previous award presented to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commendable leadership, particularly in handling crises in the state during his travails before emerging as Governor of the State.
The Oodua Youth Coalition reiterated its commitment to rewarding hard work and laudable achievements, without any political bias.
On his own, Senior Special Assistant, SSA to the Governor on Communications, Mr Allen Sowore, who lauded Akogun Adeleye for his bravery in tackling bandits, emphasised that security of lives and properties is the primary responsibility of any government, and Amotekun has taken the lead in this regard for Ondo State.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of Ondo State as a gateway to various regions in Nigeria, stressing the need for increased investment in Amotekun, particularly in developing an amphibious unit to safeguard the waterways.
Sowore cited past security initiatives and urged for more contributions to strengthen Amotekun’s capacity, noting that a secure Ondo State would ensure the security of the entire southwest.
He praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for reappointing the Commander based on merit, without any bias and expressed confidence that Amotekun would continue to excel in its role, not only in protecting the state, but also in supporting the governor’s administration.
In his contribution, Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Inter-party Affairs, Hon. Barr. Fadeshola Ojamomi,
commended the peaceful state of Ondo, attributing it to the robust security framework.
He emphasised that those who have witnessed violence and insecurity appreciate the peace currently enjoyed in the state, attributing the to the efforts of the late Arakunrin and the current administration in safeguarding lives and property.
Ojamomi highlighted the threat posed by Fulani herdsmen and noted that the appointment of Akogun Adetunji Adeleye as Commander was instrumental in maintaining peace.
He praised Akogun’s native intelligence and ability to manage security threats, affirming that without his leadership, the state’s security might have been compromised.
He further lauded the consistent positive actions of Ondo State Amotekun under Akogun’s command, stating that his reappointment by Governor Lucky is a testament to his competence.
Ojamomi expressed confidence that the agency’s management would continue to thrive and looked forward to future celebrations of Akogun’s leadership.
At the event, copies of the OYC Magazine, which highlighted customs, traditions, festivals, and the rich cultural heritage rooted in the Omoluabi ethos, were launched.
