Ondo targets new 500 Amotekun officers to strengthen internal security
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the recruitment and training of 500 new officers for the Amotekun Corps as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture. He announced the approval on Friday at an event marking the revival of the office of the Justices of the Peace (JPs), which had been inactive for nearly 17 years.
Aiyedatiwa, alongside Attorney-General Dr Kayode Ajulo and Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola, led the inauguration of 130 new JPs drawn from diverse backgrounds. The governor described the ceremony as a turning point in reinforcing grassroots justice under the Order, Security and the Rule of Law component of his administration’s OUR EASE agenda.
He urged the appointees to uphold integrity, fairness and decorum while supporting peace, security and social harmony in their communities. He reminded them that the office of JP is a “sacred responsibility” that demands wisdom and commitment.
Aiyedatiwa also highlighted ongoing judicial reforms, including the recruitment of additional state counsels, the expansion of the judiciary and the near completion of a new Judiciary Complex equipped with a ceremonial court, modular courts and a library.
In his remarks, Dr Ajulo traced the JP institution to its 14th-century English origins and explained its significance as a link between government and communities. He noted that Ondo State last appointed JPs in 2008 and stressed that the new appointees were selected based on merit, integrity and community service.
Justice Odusola, represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath and outlined the legal and quasi-judicial roles of JPs, including mediating disputes, maintaining public order, authenticating documents and inspecting detention facilities.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ’Seinde Arogbofa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged the group’s commitment to promoting peace, justice and community development across the state.
Prominent among the new JPs are the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; leading traditional rulers; senior security chiefs; religious leaders; diplomats; and notable community figures.
