The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun has urged the newly recuited officers of the State Security Network, code named Amotekun Corps, to protect the lives of citizens rather than threaten or harass them.

Abiodun spoke during the Passing Out Parade ceremony of 690 new recruits of Batch D, held at the State Stadium in Sagamu on Saturday.

The recruits were trained on operational efficiency, rule of law, intergovernmental relationships, weapon handling, and various security-relevant courses.

Abiodun noted that the initiative is part of the administration’s ongoing commitment to enhancing security and public safety through well-trained personnel.

The Governor reiterating that the state will not serve as a shelter for criminal elements, commended the Corps Commander, Retired Brig Gen Alade Adedigba and the leadership of the Amotekun for their effort in ensuring that the training aligns with best practices in security management.

Governor Abiodun also announced the approval of the extra recruitment of 1000 Amotekun corps and assured that the officers would be remunerated in line with the civil service structure.

Abiodun said, ” Today represent a significant milestone in our collective efforts to safeguard Ogun State. As I stand before you to witness the passing out parade of the Batch D officers of the Ogun state Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps.

“You will all agree with me that these men and women have demonstrated that they have been well-trained and prepared for their job. I must say I wear this Amotekun uniform today with alot of pride, I’m very proud to be the governor of Ogun state and the grand commander of the Ogun Amotekun corps.

” The event today not only marks the completion of their training but signifies the beginning of a new chapter in our collective efforts to fight insecurity. You are not to harrass or intimidate but to protect the citizens,” he added.

In his welcome address, the Corps Commander, Alade Adedigba, thanked the Governor for believing in them and providing resources to empower the corps in serving the communities.

In addition to improving their operating capacities, Adedigba urged Governor Abiodun to provide a larger, better-equipped space that would enable them to respond to obstacles more effectively.

He said, ” It is important to state that the achievements would not have been possible without the support and guidance of His Excellency, the Governor, has demonstrated an uncanny commitment to making Ogun State safe for all and sundry, which is a sine qua non for growth and development.

“Your Excellency, distinguished guests, as we celebrate the graduation of our new recruits, I am reminded of the importance of continuous growth and development within our organization. I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the pressing need to establish the K9 Unit (dog section) for deployment to our critical infrastructure, especially the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, among others for enhanced security in line with the global practice.

” In the same vein, the need for a larger space for our office and operations cannot be over emphasized. As our corps expands and our responsibilities grow, it is essential that we have the facilities to accommodate our personnel and resources effectively.