Ban on open grazing will be enforced, Akeredolu tells AIG

Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), on Monday stated that the ban on open grazing will be enforced when the law on the matter is finally put in place.

Akeredolu said this when the newly posted Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Ene Okon, in charge of Zone 17, paid him a courtesy call in his office.

The AIG, who assumed duty in the Zonal Commend Headquarters in Akure, commended Akeredolu for his doggedness in the creation of the State Security Network codenamed ‘Amotekun.’

He said Akeredolu has laid a solid foundation for community policing with the creation of Amotekun and the dogged role he played.

Okon commended the governor for the relative peace in the Sunshine State, adding that it was no mean feat to maintain peace and order.

“I know Ondo was one of the endangered states in term of farmers/herders clashes. But the story has changed. Ondo is now one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. You have made the job of the police and other security agencies simple. I know I am coming here to rest because you have done most of the job

“I have been reading and hearing your doggedness on the creation and operation of Amotekun. Some people may have a different perception about Amotekun but you have enhanced community policing through Amotekun. Amotekun is one of the veritable organs for community policing. It is a great bridge between the police and the community.

“You have created a very good atmosphere for me to work here because you have done your job as a chief security officer. I am to work with you in conjunction with the commissioner of police. I assure you, with the commissioner of police, we are going to move Ondo to the next level security wise,” he said.

AIG Okon also appreciated Akeredolu’s effort on the creation of the Zone 17 and thanked him for the numerous work done in the zonal headquarters.

Responding, Akeredolu explained that Amotekun was not established to compete but to work and complement the existing security agencies.

“Amotekun is established by law. Let us all work together. It is clear that the essence of creation of Amotekun is community policing.

“And since the number of police is being depleted daily and the level of crime is increasing, it will be difficult to spread out with your limited number. Since police cannot be everywhere, Amotekun is here for collaboration,” Akeredolu’ said.

(THISDAY)