Are you looking for in-depth information about what is all about the new security outfit in the South Western States of Nigeria – The Operation Amotekun? If yes then you need to read the below informative article.
What is Operation Amotekun
The Yoruba word “Amotekun” has its origin from the South Western States in Nigeria which means Leopard in English.
History of Operation Amotekun
Operation Amotekun (Leopard) was officially launched on Thursday, January 9, 2020, by the six Governors of the Southwestern States of Nigeria namely Oyo State, Ogun State, Ondo State and Lagos State.
The launching of Operation Amotekun was as a result of the decision made by the six southwestern governors of Nigeria and has its headquarter in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.
In support of this security outfit, the six southwestern states have contributed 20 vehicles each, except Oyo that contributed 33 vehicles. This was done to assist the operatives in carrying out their responsibilities without stress.
They also added 100 units of motorcycles each, making a total of 600 motorcycles.
Why was Operation Amotekun Formed
In a bid to end the insecurity such as incessant killings, kidnappings and destruction of farmland in various Southwestern states, Operation Amotekun was formed to support other government forces by giving people full confidence that the governments are safeguarding them.
Operation Amotekun will assist Police, security agencies and traditional rulers in pointing out miscreants in the society as well as monitor the activities happening in Farmland.
According to Ekiti Governor Fayemi,“Amotekun is a complement that will give our people confidence that they are being looked after by those they elected into office.
“So, we do not want this to create fear in the mind of anybody as we are not creating a regional police force and are fully aware of the steps we must take to have state police.
“We do not want anybody to misconstrue the concept of Amotekun.”
Amotekun Logo and Purpose
The Amotekun Logo shows an image of an angry leopard in full flight which also has its motto to be zero Tolerance to Crime and its purpose is to ensure an end to insecurity in the South Western part of Nigeria.
The function of Amotekun Operatives
The function of Amotekun Operatives is that they will be on uniforms as usual as well as carry guns that look like hunter guns which means that they won’t focus heavily om charms and machetes.
They will be trained and courteous on the Amotekun’s job and focus on the spot that police officers can’t penetrate because the operatives of this security outfit will know and understand the area better.
According to Wikipedia, States like Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Oyo and Ondo have already employed over 1,000 operatives for the Amotekun operation.
Who Is The Leader of Amotekun
There is no particular leader for the security outfit but in each southwestern state, we have commanders in charge of the operation.
How to Join Amotekun
Before deciding to join the Amotekun operation, there are basic requirements that you need to obtain the form.
- First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC)
- Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE)
- WAEC, NECO, GCE.
- NABTEB / A’level.
- National Diploma (ND)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
- Bachelor Degree or its equivalent.
Salary Structure of Amotekun
The Salary structure for any Amotekun operative varies based on the certificate one holds.
At first, the monthly salary was pegged at 13,500 however the operatives rejected it and stated that the operation won’t be carried out effectively if such amount is given to them.
So in a bid for the operatives to do the work well, The six south-west governors are still contemplating whether to pay them ₦50,000 or below as monthly salary.
Controversy In Operation Amotekun
On 13 January 2020, the Nigeria Police warned that they will arrest any Amotekun operative that wears the uniform of the security outfit.
On 14 January 2020, the Federal government of Nigeria declared Operation Amotekun as an illegal operation, stating that it is not backed by the Nigerian constitution.
On 23 January 2020, the vice president of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo, met with the six-state governors of southwestern Nigeria and they all agreed to work together towards the progress of Operation Amotekun.
Website for Amotekun
For now, there is no particular website for Amotekun but below are verified websites you can check for more details:
Ekiti State: www.amotekun.ekitistate.gov.ng
Oyo State: https://oyostate.gov.ng/
Ondo State: http://www.ondoamotekun.org.ng/
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