Security must not be politicised, APC tells PDP, says attack on Amotekun expansion endangers public safety

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has faulted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over its criticism of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s recent security initiatives, describing the opposition party’s comments as “misguided” and a dangerous attempt to politicise public safety.

In a statement issued by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the APC accused the PDP of deliberately misrepresenting the Governor’s inauguration of new Amotekun facilities and the recruitment of additional operatives, actions the party said were in line with the administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the state.

Otaloro explained that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s foremost responsibility was the protection of life and property and that the state government’s continued investment in the Amotekun Corps reflected its dedication to safeguarding citizens amid the complex security challenges facing the nation.

He noted that the unveiling of the modern Command and Control Centre, the new Training Auditorium, and the enlistment of the fifth batch of Amotekun officers were “bold and proactive measures” designed to reinforce the state’s security architecture.

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“At a time when communities across Nigeria are battling evolving threats, Ondo State cannot afford to slow down its security interventions or engage in political distractions,” Otaloro said.

The APC spokesperson criticised the PDP for describing the latest recruitment exercise as a lapse, stating that such a position demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the realities confronting the country.

On concerns raised by the PDP regarding the welfare of Amotekun personnel, Otaloro said the Aiyedatiwa administration is already addressing issues related to salaries, documentation and internal structural adjustments “systematically and transparently,” without resorting to sensationalism.

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He added that what the PDP calls “shielding” is simply the Governor’s refusal to politicise internal administrative processes, noting that welfare reforms were ongoing and that every legitimate officer would receive what was due in accordance with established procedures.

The APC maintained that the recruitment of additional operatives was neither exploitative nor premature, explaining that security agencies worldwide regularly expand their manpower while internal reforms continue simultaneously.

“You do not weaken a security force because administrative issues exist; you strengthen it while resolving them,” Otaloro said.

He further warned that the PDP’s persistent attempt to create a false conflict between welfare and recruitment amounted to undermining the morale and stability of the corps.

“What Ondo State needs today is unity, vigilance and cooperation not unfortunate statements crafted to score cheap political points at the expense of public safety,” the APC noted.

Otaloro stressed that any political party genuinely concerned about security would commend the ongoing reforms and expansion of Amotekun, rather than condemn efforts aimed at strengthening the state’s defence capability.

“The APC stands firmly with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as he continues to take decisive steps to protect lives and property,” he declared.