Osun State’s Governor Adeleke Launches Comprehensive Reform of Amotekun Corps

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has announced a comprehensive reform of the Amotekun Corps in the state, aimed at strengthening its role as a bridge between local communities and federal security agencies. According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the reform will see local vigilante and forest hunters working alongside Amotekun service and other formal security agencies to secure Osun cities and rural areas.

The governor made this announcement during a meeting with the Ife Development Board delegation at the Government House in Osogbo on Monday. Adeleke emphasized the importance of modernizing the ancient city of Ile-Ife, describing it as "too important to remain underdeveloped." He revealed plans to upgrade infrastructure, starting with the Lagere flyover and the dualization of the road leading to the Ooni’s palace.

The governor highlighted Ile-Ife’s cultural and historical significance, noting that it is the cultural capital and spiritual home of all Yoruba people worldwide. He also emphasized the city’s importance as a tourism and religious hub, attracting visitors from North and South America and other parts of the world.

Furthermore, Adeleke commended the Ooni of Ife and other community leaders for their support to ongoing projects, particularly the Lagere flyover and road dualization. He noted that aside from cultural and tourism considerations, the economic importance of the Lagere flyover is crucial, serving as a key business junction connecting Osun West, Ilesa, and Ondo through Garage Olode.

The governor also informed the delegation that the state government would soon unveil an AFDB-supported agricultural processing zone to be located at Ile Ife, highlighting the need for further action on the agricultural sector.

The president of Ife Development Board, Gbenga Adefaye, commended Governor Adeleke for his development strides in Osun state and particularly at Ile-Ife, listing requests touching on road expansion, security, and agriculture.

The comprehensive reform of the Amotekun Corps and the modernization of Ile-Ife are expected to have a significant impact on the state’s development, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure, and tourism.