Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has raised fresh concerns over the security architecture in the South-West, stating that the Amotekun Corps, despite its strong presence in the region, lacks the sophisticated weapons needed to confront terrorists and heavily armed criminals.
Speaking while assessing Nigeria’s current security challenges, Adams noted that many criminal groups operating across the country wield advanced rifles and military-grade weapons, placing regional security outfits at a disadvantage. He explained that Amotekun operatives remain committed to safeguarding communities but are insufficiently equipped for high-risk confrontations.
Adams argued that the limitations of Amotekun highlight the urgent need for the establishment of state police across Nigeria. According to him, insecurity can be significantly reduced within six months if state police structures—properly armed, trained, and legally empowered—are introduced nationwide.
He aligned with the long-standing position of Southern governors on decentralising the policing system, stressing that state policing is essential for grassroots intelligence gathering and rapid response to local threats. Adams added that concerns over potential political abuse should not overshadow the immediate priority of protecting lives and restoring safety in all regions.
He called on the Federal Government to urgently review the legal framework governing sub-national security outfits, warning that without stronger firepower and adequate support, groups like Amotekun may be overwhelmed by the growing sophistication of criminal networks.