I want Amotekun to be tech-driven, meet UN standards–Osun Commander

Chief (Dr) Adekunle Isaac Omoyele is the Corps Commander of Osun State’s wing of the Southwest regional security network, codenamed Àmò̩tẹ́kùn. The retired police officer who was recently installed as Onijegun of Ijegun, in Oyo State, speaks with Deborah Oladejo on the importance of local intelligence in security and his vision for Amotekun.

Can we meet you?

I’m Dr Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, from Iseyin in Oyo State. I studied law and philosophy at Olabisi Onabanjo University. I joined the police force in 1988 and retired in 2023 after serving in various departments such as operations, intelligence, CID, and even abroad in Sudan on a foreign mission. I’ve worked across Nigeria, especially in high-risk zones like Plateau and the East during the early IPOB crisis. I have many certificates for the job, which are professional certificates: photography, cyber intelligence, and service skills. There’s nowhere I’ve not worked in the police. But majorly, I stayed much in the operation, that is, combat operation, like all these tactical teams.

Before retirement, I was appointed Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, and immediately after my retirement, I became his Special Adviser on Internal Security before taking over as Corps Commander of the Osun Security Network (Amotekun). My journey has been one of service, and I remain committed to peace and security in our state.

You were once with the police force and now with Amotekun, a community security service. What are the key differences you observed?

The primary difference lies in structure and proximity to the people. The Nigeria Police is a federal unit, often deploying officers from different states and cultural backgrounds, which can result in language barriers and a lack of familiarity with the local terrain. Amotekun, on the other hand, operates at the grassroots. We recruit from within local governments, so officers understand the culture, language, and terrain of the communities they serve. This familiarity enhances trust and effectiveness.

How do you maintain public trust?

Trust comes naturally when people see their own brothers and sisters in uniform. With Amotekun, community members feel more comfortable sharing information and concerns. This mutual familiarity builds confidence and allows for more proactive security responses.

What steps are you taking to empower your officers at the local government level?

We’ve emphasised the importance of readiness and proper response. One key lesson is that officers must approach all distress calls with maximum caution, regardless of the area’s perceived calm. We’ve trained them to move in teams and treat every call—whether it’s a robbery or local dispute—with the same level of seriousness to avoid unnecessary risks.

What made you accept the title of Onijegun of Ijegun?

It’s a hereditary title in my family. I was initially reluctant, but my people insisted, saying it was my father’s position and a call to service. After undergoing the traditional rites, I was officially installed on May 7. The turnout at the celebration was overwhelming, and it affirmed the faith my people have in me.

What message do you have for the people of the state?

Citizens must report suspicious activity promptly. Security agencies are not magicians—we rely on timely information to act.

As a traditional ruler, how do you see your role in security matters?

Traditional rulers are the closest authority figures to the people. We are custodians of culture and often the first to receive reports when things go wrong. We must not keep quiet. I’ve already initiated a local security committee in my community to tackle cross-border challenges, especially as Iseyin shares boundaries with places like Cameroon. My experience in security will help me advise and coordinate effectively at this level.

What is your vision for the future of Amotekun?

I want Amotekun to reach UN standards—technologically advanced, logistically supported, and professionally run. We should be able to track criminals from our office, not just chase them physically. We’re already seeing improvement in personnel and welfare. Our monthly meetings with other commanders across the Southwest show we share this collective vision.

Since your assumption of office, what changes have you implemented?

Many. Amotekun now has the legal framework to operate. Our personnel are recognised in the civil service. We’ve moved from a makeshift office to a proper headquarters, and our numbers have grown from 300 to over 1,450. We also now have officers with degrees, including BScs and MScs. The transformation is ongoing, and it’s visible.