By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has told the new Assistant Inspector General of Police, (AIG) Zone 17, Ene Okon what could make his job smooth in the State.
Governor Akeredolu, while playing host to the new Zonal Police boss said his administration has banned open grazing in the state and established the Zonal Security Outfit Amotekun, which he wanted the police to support.
The Governor,however clarified that “Amotekun was not established to compete with the police but to complement its operations.
“Let us all work together. It is clear that the essence of the creation of Amotekun is community policing.
”And since the number of police is being depleted daily and the level of crime is increasing, it will be difficult to spread out with your limited number. Since Police cannot be everywhere, Amotekun is here for collaboration.”
The AIG had commended the Governor for his doggedness in the creation of the State Security Network codenamed ‘Amotekun’, saying Akeredolu has laid a solid foundation for community policing with the creation of the security outfit.
He also noted the relative peace in the state and said that it is no mean feat to maintain peace and order.
“I know Ondo was one of the endangered states in terms of farmers/herders clashes. But the story has changed.
“Ondo is now one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. You have made the job of the police and other security agencies simple. I know I am coming here to rest because you have done most of the job.
“I have been reading and hearing your doggedness on the creation and operation of Amotekun. Some people may have a different perception about Amotekun, but you have enhanced Community Policing through Amotekun.
“Amotekun is one of the veritable organs for community policing. It is a great bridge between the police and the Community.
“You have created a very good atmosphere for me to work here because you have done your job as a Chief Security Officer.
“I am to work with you in conjunction with the Commissioner of Police. I assure you, with the commissioner of Police, we are going to move Ondo to the next level security-wise.”
Mr Okon also lauded Governor Akeredolu’s effort in the creation of Zone 17 and thanked him for the numerous works done in the zonal headquarters.
