On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Osun Amotekun: A Beacon of Hope for the Grassroots That Propaganda Cannot Dim - By Yusuf Idowu Abass
In a nation often weighed down by insecurity and political distractions, Osun Amotekun Corps stands as a symbol of resilience, grassroots empowerment, and security reform. Born not out of partisanship but of necessity, Amotekun was established to protect lives and property through intelligence-led, community-driven operations. Yet, even a noble mission like this is not immune to the crossfire of Nigeria’s political theatre, particularly from opposition forces intent on muddying the waters for political gain.
Let us be clear: Amotekun is not a political outfit.
It is a creation of law, backed by the Osun State House of Assembly, launched with the support of the people, and structured to complement federal security agencies. Its core duty remains unchanged: to defend the people of Osun State with professionalism, neutrality, and local knowledge.
Recently, however, certain elements within the Osun APC opposition have attempted to tarnish the image of the Corps. Their accusations of misconduct during an operation in Atakumosa East, where armed suspects were arrested not only hasty but clearly laced with ulterior motives. Rather than verify facts or await investigation outcomes, these voices rushed to social media, painting the Corps as partisan aggressors. They conveniently ignored the seizure of dangerous weapons, choosing instead to politicize an act of law enforcement.
This kind of reckless rhetoric is not just unfair, it is dangerous.
It undermines the morale of operatives who risk their lives daily. It sows distrust in a system built on community cooperation. And worse still, it sends a message to criminal elements that the security of the state can be compromised for political theatre.
Security should never be politicized.
When it is, we trade progress for propaganda, truth for tactics, and peace for partisanship. The Amotekun Corps has never been, and must never be reduced to a pawn on anyone’s political chessboard.
Under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, and the dedicated supervision of AIG Wale Abbas (retd.), Chief Dr. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele (Corps Commander), and Field Commander Olusoji Benedict Akanni, Amotekun has witnessed remarkable growth. The recruitment of 1,150 new personnel across the 30 local government areas is a strategic leap forward, not just in numbers, but in coverage, efficiency, and responsiveness.
This expansion speaks to the state's commitment to local security, not partisan ambition. If anything, the Corps' results, from foiled kidnapping attempts to rapid response patrols, should be commended, not condemned.
To those seeking to misrepresent its mission: know this, your attacks are not just against a uniformed body.
They are attacks on peace, stability, and the collective will of the people of Osun.
And propaganda, no matter how loud, cannot dim the light of truth.
The people know better.
They’ve seen Amotekun intervene where others could not.
They’ve witnessed the swift response to rural threats, the commitment to transparency, and the willingness to engage communities.
This trust, built on service, not slogans is what truly sustains Amotekun’s legitimacy.
In conclusion, I call on all well-meaning citizens to see through the fog of falsehood and stand firmly with the Osun Amotekun Corps. The mission is peace. The method is law. The motive is service.
And so long as that remains true, no propaganda can dim this grassroots beacon.
— Yusuf Idowu Abass is a journalist, PR expert, and the Public Relations Officer of Osun Amotekun Corps.
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