“Osun Mastermind Calls for Fairness in Amotekun Recruitment, Warns Against Political Bias”

As the Osun State Government begins the recruitment of 1,000 cadets for the Amotekun Corps, the civil society coalition, The Osun Mastermind (TOM), has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to avoid politicizing the process.

Governor Adeleke recently approved the recruitment to strengthen the Amotekun Corps and improve security across the state. The process officially began last week. However, TOM, during its Monthly State-of-the-State address in Osogbo, raised concerns over the potential politicization of the recruitment.

Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, TOM’s Executive Director, urged the governor to ensure that appointments to the security outfit were based on patriotism and commitment to securing lives and property, not political loyalty. “Given the sensitive nature of Amotekun Corps as a security outfit, it is essential that the recruitment process is not turned into a political affair,” Oyedokun-Alli emphasized. “Only individuals with a genuine passion for security should be considered.”

While praising the state government’s efforts to recruit for both Amotekun and the Imole Youths Empowerment Scheme, TOM stressed the importance of maintaining a non-partisan approach to the recruitment. Oyedokun-Alli further pointed out that the initiative could be a significant opportunity for youth empowerment and long-term human capacity development in Osun, especially in light of the growing concern over the state’s high levels of unemployment.

“The plans to recruit into these programs will not only provide immediate employment but will also contribute to human development in our state,” he stated. “However, we must ensure that political influence does not derail the positive intentions behind this recruitment.”

TOM’s statement serves as a reminder to the state government to prioritize merit and dedication to public service in its recruitment process for the Amotekun Corps, reinforcing the need for inclusivity and fairness.