Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disclosed that more than 200 members of the Amotekun Corps have died during various security operations within the state.
He made the revelation while visiting families of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area.
During the visit, the governor appealed for calm and unity among stakeholders involved in rescue efforts. He stressed that cooperation, rather than blame, was needed to secure the safe return of the victims.
Makinde also expressed sympathy to families affected by insecurity, including those who lost loved ones in the line of duty.
He acknowledged the risks faced by Amotekun operatives, noting that many have paid the ultimate price while confronting violent crime.
According to him, all levels of government must work together more closely to address the security situation. He emphasized that resolving insecurity requires collective action.
The governor reiterated his backing for the establishment of state police as a long-term solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.
He explained that Amotekun was introduced in 2020 by South-West states as an interim security arrangement. The group was created to support existing security agencies in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Makinde added that the absence of state policing led to the formation of regional security structures aimed at filling operational gaps.
