Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the recruitment and training of 500 additional personnel for the state’s Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps.
Gatekeepers News reports that Aiyedatiwa announced the approval on Friday in Akure during the inauguration of a new cohort of Justices of the Peace (JPs). He said the fresh recruitment is necessary to strengthen the state’s security framework and bolster the efforts of existing Amotekun operatives.
The governor also highlighted the revival of the JP office after nearly 17 years of inactivity, describing it as a major step toward enhancing grassroots justice delivery.
“This marks a turning point in reinforcing justice at the grassroots, in line with the order, security and rule of law agenda of this administration,” he said.
A total of 130 new JPs drawn from diverse backgrounds were sworn in. Aiyedatiwa urged them to uphold integrity, wisdom, decorum and fairness, saying their role is a “sacred responsibility” essential to promoting peace and justice within communities.
He assured the appointees of government support as they mediate disputes, maintain social order and promote harmony.
As part of broader judicial reforms, the governor noted ongoing recruitment of additional state counsels, expansion of the judiciary and the near completion of a new Judiciary Complex featuring a ceremonial court, modular courts, and a library to enhance timely justice delivery.
Attorney General Kayode Ajulo, who spoke earlier, traced the JP institution to its 14th-century English origins and its adoption in colonial Nigeria. He said Ondo State last appointed JPs in 2008 and described the office as a vital link between government and local communities.
He added that the new appointees were selected based on merit, moral standing, integrity, humility and commitment to peace.
Representing the Chief Judge, Justice Akintan Osadebe administered the oath. Justice Odusola described the JP office as “legal and quasi-judicial,” noting that their duties include mediating disputes, maintaining public order, administering oaths, inspecting detention facilities, certifying documents and supporting various official legal processes.
He also emphasised their community obligations, such as assisting local policing, guiding youth groups and preventing conflicts.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ‘Seinde Arogbofa thanked the state government for the opportunity to serve and pledged their commitment to strengthening peace, justice and community development. He called for collaborative efforts to ensure the objectives of the JP initiative are fully achieved, especially in rural communities.
