Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has said the state is prepared for the establishment of a state police command, citing more than 6,000 personnel serving with the Ogun State Security Network, known as Amotekun, and the So-Safe Corps as a ready manpower base.
Abiodun said the existing security outfits had given Ogun a strong foundation for transitioning to a state-controlled policing structure capable of improving the protection of lives and property.
He spoke at the 50th anniversary celebration of Ereke Day in Ikenne, Ikenne Local Government Area, where he described the Ogun State House of Assembly’s approval of state police as a major step towards strengthening the state’s security architecture.
The governor, who chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Committee on State Police Creation and represents President Bola Tinubu on the committee, said Ogun was ready to translate the initiative into an operational policing structure.
“I am the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum on State Police Creation and the representative of the President in the Governors’ Forum on State Police Creation. I am proud to announce that the Ogun State House of Assembly has approved the creation of State Police.
“Between Amotekun and So-Safe Corps, we have over 6,000 personnel. We are ready for the Ogun State Police Command, and that will make the difference in protecting the lives and property of our people,” he said.
Abiodun stressed that security was critical to economic growth and sustainable development, noting that effective collaboration between communities and security agencies would help create a safer environment for residents, businesses and investors.
The governor also directed the immediate reconstruction of the Delabo-Ikenne Road, saying the project would improve accessibility, support economic activities and enhance connectivity within the community.
Speaking on the significance of Ereke Day’s 50th anniversary, Abiodun described the milestone as a reflection of Ikenne’s unity, shared heritage and determination to advance the interests of its people.
“Fifty years is very remarkable in the tradition and history of any people. It speaks to a united and common heritage, shared values and a collective determination to build a better future,” he said.
He commended traditional rulers and members of the Ikenne Traditional Council of Chiefs for their leadership and efforts to preserve communal unity while promoting development.
Abiodun also congratulated residents for sustaining Ereke Day for five decades, attributing its longevity to the foresight of the community’s founding generation, the sacrifices of successive generations and the enduring strength of its communal spirit.
He said the annual celebration had grown beyond a cultural event to become a platform for intellectual engagement, institutional development, infrastructure advancement and preservation of the community’s heritage.
“Ereke Day represents much more than an annual cultural gathering. It is a powerful demonstration of what a united and purposeful community can accomplish,” he added.
The governor further praised the Ikenne Community Development Association for mobilising the human, intellectual and financial resources of residents to address developmental needs.
According to him, although government has a responsibility to provide leadership and create an enabling environment, sustainable development also depends on active community participation and ownership.
Abiodun described Ikenne as a community of major historical significance to Ogun State and Nigeria, citing its links to prominent figures such as the late nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and renowned educationist, Dr Tai Solarin.
He said their contributions to education, democratic governance and national development remained part of the community’s enduring legacy, while the development initiatives undertaken by Ikenne residents demonstrated how collective action could create lasting assets for present and future generations.
