Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that more than 200 operatives of the Western Nigeria Security Network have lost their lives while combating insecurity in Oyo State and other parts of the South-West.
The governor made the revelation during a visit to families of students and teachers abducted by gunmen from three schools in the Oriire area of Ogbomoso. He called for unity among all levels of government and security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
Makinde said the fight against insecurity has come at a heavy cost, noting that many Amotekun personnel have paid the ultimate price while protecting communities from kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements.
According to him, public criticism of government efforts is understandable, but authorities remain committed to tackling security challenges across the state. He stressed that this was not the time for blame games but for collective action to end the wave of violence and abductions.
The governor also renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that Amotekun was created as a temporary solution after efforts to secure constitutional backing for state policing failed.
Makinde prayed for an end to the bloodshed in Oyo State and across Nigeria, while assuring residents that his administration would continue to strengthen security operations to protect lives and property.
