Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, on Monday inaugurated the Ekiti State Security Network Agency, codenamed ‘Amotekun Corps’ saying it was not meant to replace or discredit other traditional security agencies, but to collaborate with and strengthen their operations.
The Governor explained that the establishment of the security outfit was a child of necessity aimed to solve and address the various security challenges bedevilling the state and the southwest zone in particular and Nigeria in general.
Dr Fayemi, who stated this at event which also featured Passing out Parade of the newly recruited personnel of the outfit at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, noted that fighting crime was a collective responsibility which required input and collaboration of every citizen.
He said that the agency, in the course of carrying out its duty, would safeguard the human rights of the citizens of the state as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, adding that all citizens are expected to go about their normal businesses without any fear of intimidation.
The Governor, who had earlier carried out inspection of the quarter guard and parade was accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Biodun Oyebanji, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Biodun Omoleye and the Chairman, Traditional Council in the state and the Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Ajibade Alabi among others.
According to Dr Fayemi, “The precarious security situation we are contending with nationwide has created a palpable fear in the minds of our people, the current challenges of proliferation of small arms and light weapons, kidnapping, assassination, cattle rustling, ritual killing, armed robbery, cultism and youth restiveness are daunting but surmountable.
“For the umpteenth time, I hereby reiterate that Amotekun is not a substitute for any of the existing security agency. Amotekun is here to strengthen our general security architecture by collaborating and synergizing with all existing security agencies to ensure security and safety of lives and properties of Ekiti kete using local knowledge and native intelligence.
“As a government, we are determined to put an end to this worrisome development of insecurity, we are encouraged and strengthened by the sense of responsibility and collective support that our people at home and in the diasporas give the Amotekun initiative.
“Amotekun is established to ensure the safety and freedom of not only Ekiti indigene or Yoruba people but everyone resident within and around Ekiti state. It is to protect and safeguard all within our state and indeed within our zone.”
Fayemi, who explained that the impact of Covid-19 had caused the delay in the launch, charged every member of the society to be vigilant and be wary of shielding criminals in their communities adding that cooperation of all was important at this time for the outfit to succeed.
“It is also noteworthy that Ekiti state Security Network Agency will collaborate with similar security network agency in other states including but not limited to Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ondo and Oyo states to deterred kidnapping, terrorism, destruction of lives and properties, highway robberies and any other criminal activities and to assist the police and other security institution in apprehending such criminals.
“Crime fighting is a collective responsibility, all hands must be on deck in our quest to restore peace and stop criminality in our state and region, those who engage in criminal activities live within and around us. Let us be vigilant and be sensitive to new faces in our midst.
While congratulating the corps officers, the governor enjoined them to shun any act that can tarnish or rubbish the image and purpose of the outfit. He further charged them to live above board and respect the oath they sworn to.
Earlier, the Corps Commander, Brig-Gen. Joe Akomolafe (rtd) warned all criminal minded people in Ekiti State to leave as the state was no longer safe for criminals, adding that the mandate revolves around protection of lives and properties of the people.
The Commander, who reminded the Corps officers that they are under constituted authority, enjoined them to promptly report any situation for further directives.
Fayemi also assured workers in the state of better welfare and improved working conditions as incentives for quality service delivery.
The Governor gave the assurance on Monday at an Interactive Session with Public Servants tagged “A Day Out With Public Servants” held at the Abiodun Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti, as part of activities marking his two in office.
The 8th edition of the Fountain Bureaucrat magazine, a journal on service matters and the Handbook on Workers’ Ethics, the first of its kind since the creation of the state were launched at the event.
The Governor commended the leadership of the Organised Labour for their cooperation in translating the five-pillar development agenda of his administration into reality which has contributed to the success story recorded in the last two years.
Dr. Fayemi who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, restated the commitment of his administration to regular interface with the workforce which he described as essential for a smooth and healthy administration.
He noted that public servants play central roles in developing policies, advising the executive, implementing government’s decisions and programmes which are critical in meeting the yearnings of the people.
Dwelling on the theme of the anniversary, “Steady Strides, Impacting Lives Building Legacies,” Dr. Fayemi said the catchphrase speaks to the unwavering commitment of his government to the rapid socio-economic development of the state despite all odds.
Dr. Fayemi restated the commitment of his administration to regular interface with the workforce which he described as essential for a smooth and healthy administration.
He explained that his administration has put workers welfare on the front burner despite the financial challenges facing it on its avowed commitment to boost their morale for them to give their best.
The Governor said: “This administration has strategically maintained the delicate balance between infrastructure development and workers’ welfare .
“The completion of the abandoned building projects and the renovation of buildings at the Secretariat, together with the provision of water and toilet facilities are parts of efforts targeted at ensuring safe and conducive work environment for our workers.
“Recently, I approved the conversion and inter-cadre transfer of 603 officers. This we did because we believe that a well motivated workforce is an essential ingredient for a highly skilled civil service.
“Workers’ salaries are being paid as and when due while we have commenced the gradual implementation of the financial benefit of promotions. Be rest assured that this government shall continue to pursue the well being of all employees of the Ekiti State Civil Service.
“The welfare and improved working conditions of the workers shall continue to be our priority. I urge you to serve with utmost commitment and dedication to duty. We must all join hands in advancing the development of our state.”
The Head of Service, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, commended the Governor for his interest in workers’ welfare, wellbeing and career development since coming to power.
She listed the career-advancing steps taken by the Fayemi administration to include merit-based appointments, promotion, conversion, inter-cadre transfer of officers and training of staff.
Mrs. Babafemi further eulogised the Governor for his commitment to regular payment of pensions and gratuities and the completion of two phases in the State Secretariat Complex.
The Head of Service equally appreciated the Governor for renovating buildings and sanitary facilities at the Secretariat and the partnership with the World Bank for the extension of water supply to offices.
She disclosed that action has commenced on a phased implementation of the resolutions reached with the Organized Labour on welfare issues.
Mrs. Babafemi urged workers not to relent in agitating for better welfare from the state government describing it as their legitimate rights.
The forum was also attended by the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Funminiyi Afuye; the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Hakeem Jamiu; the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Biodun Oyebanji and the National President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Mr. Quadri Olaleye who was represented by the Ekiti State Chapter Chairman, Mr. Olusola Adigun.
The governor also named members of the Judicial Panel to investigate alleged human rights abuses by some officers attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
A statement by his CPS, Yinka Oyebode, reads:
1) The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, has directed the immediate establishment of Ekiti State Judicial Panel of Inquiry into Allegations of Human Rights Violations against Police Officers including officers of the Special Anti- Robbery Squad (SARS) and other Persons.
2) Members of the Panel are:
1) Honourable Justice Cornelius Akintayo (Rtd) – Chairman
2) Mr. Dipo Ayeni, Commissioner of Police (Rtd)
3) Mrs. Yetunde Kolawole, State Counsel- (Representing the Honourable Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice)
4) Mrs. Kikelomo Owolabi, Chairperson, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikere-Ekiti Branch
5) Mr. Rotimi Ojomoyela, Chair, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ekiti State Branch
6) Mr. Jamiu Abiodun Adigun, Representative, National Human Rights Commission
7) Mr. Adeyinka Opaleke, Representative, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria
8) Ms. Caroline Fakinlede, Ekiti State Youths Representative
9) Mr. Abiola Johnson-Ogunleye- Ekiti State Students Representative
10) Mr. Akin Rotimi, Researcher, Police Reforms
3) The Terms of Reference of the Judicial Panel are:
i) Receive and investigate complaints of Police brutality or related extra-judicial killings;
ii) Receive and Investigate complaints of violence against individuals and destruction of properties in every part of Ekiti State in the course of the protest;
iii) Evaluate evidence presented and other surrounding circumstances, and draw conclusions as to the validity of the complaints; and
iv) Recommend compensation and other remedial measures, where appropriate.
4. While the duration of the assignment of the panel will be six months, the Chairman of the panel will be expected to provide monthly briefings to the Honourable Attorney- General & Commissioner for Justice to further enhance the speedy consideration of all complaints.
5. In order to enable the panel respond appropriately to the urgent needs of victims of rights violations, Mr. Governor has established a Victims Compensation Fund to enable the speedy payment of monetary compensation to deserving victims.
6. Mr. Governor has further directed the Ministry of Justice to immediately ensure that its Department of Citizens Rights in addition to receiving walk-in complaints by victims of Human Rights violation is able to receive, process and resolve complaints by telephone or social media channels.
