The South West Governors and the Nigeria Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu have agreed on Thursday on terms for the operation of the Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed ‘Amotekun’ as they regarded it as community Policing and not a regional Police.
The Chairman of the South West Governors forum, Governor of Ondo State Mr Rotimi Akeredolu and the Inspector General of Police, Mr Adamu made the disclosure while briefing Journalists at the end of a closed door meeting held at the Banquet Hall of the Governor’s office, state Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.
Among those who were present at the meeting included the Governor of Lagos State Mr Babajide Sanwoolu, Governor State of Osun Gboyega Oyetola represented by his Deputy, Mr Benedict Alabi while other South West Governors were also represented by their deputies.
They resolved at the meeting that the operation of the security Network codenamed Amotekun would be on state basis and must have legal backing.
They assured that the South West have no intention of creating a regional Police saying the community Policing is in conformity with the stipulation of the country’s Constitution.
The IGP, Mr Adamu explained that police will support the initiative and do the needful for its success.
He described Operation Amotekun, as a build up on the existing structure of community Policing, like the vigilantes, meant to enhance the security of life and property.
He confirmed that Police would be involved in the recruitment and training of personnel into the South West security network.