Insecurity: Aiyedatiwa Approves Recruitment Of 500 New Amotekun Officers

As the country battles worsening security situation in different parts of the country, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa yesterday disclosed that he has given approval for the recruitment and training of 500 new officers for the Amotekun Corps.

This is coming on the heels of revival of the Ondo State government office of the Justices of the Peace (JPs), giving citizens an active role in local justice delivery after about 17 years of its inactivity.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, and the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, led the inauguration of the new cohort on Friday, emphasising a renewed commitment to the rule of law and community cohesion.

A total of 130 appointees, drawn from all walks of life, were sworn in, reflecting the diversity and inclusiveness of the state’s renewed grassroots justice initiative.

In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the occasion as a turning point in reinforcing justice at the grassroots, in consonant with the ‘Order, Security and the Rule of Law’, which is the first component of the ‘OUR EASE agenda’ of his administration.

Governor Aiyedatiwa therefore urged the new JPs to play their part in enhancing local security, peace and justice in their respective communities.

He reminded the new JP appointees that their office is a “sacred responsibility,” requiring integrity, wisdom, decorum and fairness.

He commended their selection and assured them of government support as they mediate disputes, maintain social order and promote harmony within their communities.

Highlighting the state’s broader judicial reforms, the governor noted the recruitment of additional state counsels, the expansion of the judiciary and the near completion of a new Judiciary Complex, which will feature a ceremonial court, modular courts and a library, all aimed at supporting the timely delivery of justice.

In his welcome address, the Attorney General of the State, Dr Ajulo, traced the JP institution to its 14th‑century English origins and its adoption during Nigeria’s colonial era.

He noted that Ondo last appointed JPs in 2008 and described the office as a crucial link between government and communities.

Ajulo outlined the statutory powers under Section 12 of the Magistrates’ Court Law, enabling JPs to preserve peace, quell disturbances and seek assistance when necessary.

He emphasised that appointees were selected based on merit, moral standing, integrity, humility and commitment to peaceful conduct.

On his part, the Chief Judge, represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath-taking and outlined the JPs’ functions.

Justice Odusola described the office as “legal and quasi‑judicial,” instructing appointees to consult their handbook, which details duties such as mediating disputes, maintaining public order, administering oaths, visiting detention facilities, inspecting conditions and handling detainees’ complaints. Administrative responsibilities include certifying and authenticating documents and supporting official processes for visas, passports and other legal matters.