Ola Akinwunmi
Former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, has called on the state lawmakers to amend the Amotekun law to accommodate Forest Guards as part of efforts to tackle insecurity in the state. Ajayi made this call during the 60th birthday celebration of former Minority Leader, Hon. Rasheed Elegbeleye, in Akure, the state capital.
Ajayi expressed concern over the rising insecurity in the country, emphasizing that the primary duty of any government is to protect lives and property. He urged the state government to ensure that citizens can go about their lawful businesses without fear of being killed or kidnapped.
Ajayi recalled his proposal for a Forest Guard unit during his governorship campaign, which he believes can help check heinous crimes in the state. He welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposal for a similar security outfit and called on the lawmakers to amend the existing law to equip the Forest Guard with sophisticated weapons.
Ajayi suggested that the Forest Guard should be stationed in the forest with hunters and other security outfits to effectively tackle insecurity in Ondo State and the country at large. He emphasized the need for the lawmakers to work with the National Security Adviser to achieve this goal.
The former Deputy Governor challenged the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Olamide Oladiji, and his colleagues to take immediate action to amend the Amotekun law and provide the necessary support for the Forest Guard initiative.
Ajayi’s call for the amendment of the Amotekun law to accommodate Forest Guards highlights the need for collaborative efforts to tackle insecurity in Ondo State. By working together, the state government and lawmakers can provide a safer environment for citizens to live and work.
