In an unexpected and intense operation that has captured the attention of many, the Amotekun Security Network in Ondo State has deported 114 individuals, predominantly from Northern Nigeria, for allegedly infiltrating the state’s forests with nefarious intentions. The individuals, according to Amotekun officials, were found to be roaming across the state’s dense forest regions, including areas such as Ore and Ofosu, with the intent of perpetrating criminal activities.
The development comes amid heightened concerns over security in Nigeria, especially with the alarming increase in attacks and criminal activities that have plagued several states in the country. This dramatic move by Amotekun has reignited debates on illegal immigration, the safety of local communities, and the operations of non-state security outfits.
Uncovering the Plot: A Coordinated Effort by Amotekun
On Sunday, Adetunji Adeleye, the State Commander of Amotekun, briefed journalists in a public address, confirming that the operation was successful in preventing what could have been another dangerous plot involving criminal elements across Ondo’s forests. Adeleye revealed that the suspects, who were transported in two large trucks, were allegedly being distributed across multiple areas of the state’s vast forestlands.
“We uncovered a disturbing plot,” Adeleye began. “These individuals were being deployed into our forests, where they would hide and carry out criminal acts, such as armed robbery and kidnapping. Afterward, they would retreat to the cover of the dense forests, making it harder for authorities to trace them.”
Adeleye’s remarks indicate that the operatives had been tracking the infiltrators for weeks, working alongside other security agencies to curtail the movement of such groups across the state.
Weapons Seized and Profiles Exposed
The most shocking aspect of the operation was the discovery of locally-made firearms in the possession of the 114 individuals. “We recovered several firearms, some of which were crude, locally made weapons. These were intended for use in committing various criminal activities,” Adeleye confirmed, pointing to some of the seized weapons that were laid out for the media.
These revelations further raised alarm about the growing insecurity in Nigeria, where criminal groups, including bandits and kidnappers, have often been reported to use similar weapons to carry out their operations.
Adeleye, who also oversaw the profiling of the deported individuals, shared that, aside from three who seemed to have some knowledge of their destination, none of the rest knew where they were headed. “They were essentially being sent into the forests like pawns, awaiting instructions from unknown handlers,” he added, stressing the calculated nature of the operation.
A Controversial Decision: Governor’s Directive on Deportation
The operation was in line with orders from the Ondo State government. Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, in a statement released earlier this month, directed the Amotekun Corps to investigate and, where necessary, deport individuals suspected of being in the state for illegal purposes. Adeleye emphasized that while Nigerians are guaranteed the freedom of movement within the country, those without a legitimate purpose to be in Ondo’s forests must be removed.
“Security is the foremost priority for the government, and as such, the state cannot condone any illegal activities,” Adeleye noted. “This is a clear message that while we respect the rights of citizens to move freely within the country, such freedoms must be exercised responsibly, with clear intentions.”
The individuals were subsequently sent back to their respective states, with Amotekun officials overseeing their return to avoid any disturbances. The leader of the Hausa community in Ondo, Bala Umaru, commented on the development, acknowledging that while some individuals from his community had been apprehended, the government’s action was necessary for the safety and well-being of the people in Ondo.
“We understand the reasons behind this decision. The safety of our people must come first. We are grateful to the government for acting swiftly,” Umaru stated.
The Bigger Picture: Infiltration and Security Concerns in Nigeria
This incident comes on the heels of an increasingly worrying trend of armed groups operating in Nigeria’s forests. In the past few years, numerous reports have emerged from different regions of Nigeria, particularly in the North and Southwest, of criminal gangs, often referred to as “bandits,” taking refuge in the forests to plan and execute their operations. Ondo, like many states, has struggled with such threats, leading to the formation of the Amotekun corps as a local response to the increasing violence.
Critics of Amotekun, however, have questioned whether the outfit’s approach is legal or effective. While the outfit was created as a regional security initiative to address the unique needs of southwestern Nigeria, there has been pushback over its methods and the potential for abuse of power. Still, many residents of Ondo view the Amotekun operatives as their first line of defense, especially in the face of growing insecurity.
The Road Ahead: The Role of Non-State Security Outfits
Amotekun’s recent success in averting another possible security crisis has further cemented the role of non-state security outfits in Nigeria’s fight against organized crime. Whether these outfits are sustainable or effective long-term remains a topic of debate, as their operations often bring them into conflict with federal security agencies and local communities.
Despite the controversy, the results of this latest operation appear to have won significant public support, particularly in Ondo, where residents are feeling increasingly vulnerable to the spread of banditry and other criminal activities. However, the challenge for the Amotekun Corps and other local security initiatives will be to balance enforcement with accountability, ensuring that their actions do not lead to the wrongful targeting of innocent people.
As for the individuals who were deported, their fates remain uncertain. While it is unlikely that they will be heard from again in the forests of Ondo, questions linger about the broader network that might have orchestrated their journey into the state and what other plans might be in store for the region.
