Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the recruitment and training of 500 additional operatives for the state’s Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, in a move he says is aimed at “fortifying the security architecture” of the state. Announcing the decision in Akure, the state capital, the governor explained that the new intake will complement existing Amotekun personnel and deepen community‑based security across all localljk government areas.
Aiyedatiwa made the disclosure on Friday during the inauguration of a new cohort of Justices of the Peace (JPs) at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria in Wuse II, Abuja, marking the revival of the JP institution in Ondo after nearly 17 years of inactivity. He said the reactivation of the office, alongside the Amotekun recruitment, reflects his administration’s commitment to “order, security and the rule of law,” which he described as the first pillar of his policy agenda. “The government has chosen to give our citizens a more active role in justice delivery at the local level,” he noted, stressing that grassroots peace and cohesion are central to sustainable development in the state.
A total of 130 new JPs drawn from diverse backgrounds were sworn in, a composition the governor said demonstrates the “diversity and inclusiveness” of the state’s renewed justice initiative. Describing the event as “a turning point in reinforcing justice at the grassroots,” Aiyedatiwa charged the appointees to see their position as a “sacred responsibility” requiring integrity, wisdom, decorum and fairness. He urged them to enhance local security, peace and justice in their communities and assured them of government backing as they mediate disputes, maintain social order and promote harmony.
Highlighting broader judicial reforms, the governor pointed to the recruitment of additional state counsels, expansion of the judiciary and the near completion of a new Judiciary Complex. The complex, he said, will feature a ceremonial court, modular courts and a library, all designed to support the timely delivery of justice. “These investments are part of our holistic effort to strengthen institutions that protect the rights and safety of our people,” he added.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ondo State Attorney General Kayode Ajulo traced the origins of the JP institution to 14th‑century England and its adoption in Nigeria during the colonial period. He recalled that the last set of JPs in Ondo was appointed in 2008 and described the office as “a crucial link between government and communities.” Citing Section 12 of the Magistrates’ Court Law, Ajulo outlined the statutory powers of JPs to preserve the peace, quell disturbances and call for assistance when necessary, emphasising that the new appointees were selected on the basis of merit, moral standing, integrity, humility and commitment to peaceful conduct.
Representing the Chief Judge, Justice Akintan Osadebe administered the oath of office and detailed the functions of the JPs. He characterised the position as “legal and quasi‑judicial,” and directed them to study their handbook, which spells out responsibilities ranging from mediating disputes and maintaining public order to administering oaths, visiting detention facilities, inspecting conditions and handling detainee complaints. He added that their administrative roles include certifying and authenticating documents and supporting official processes for visas, passports and other legal matters, while community‑focused duties cover assisting local policing, guiding youth groups, advising traditional and community leaders and preventing conflicts.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ‘Seinde Arogbofa thanked the governor and judiciary for the confidence reposed in them, acknowledging the “historical importance” of the appointment. He pledged that the new JPs would support the judiciary and deepen grassroots engagement in maintaining law and order, emphasising the need for inclusivity that recognises rural communities. Arogbofa called on all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the objectives of peace, justice and community development are fully realised across Ondo State.
