Ondo State Deepens Security, Justice Reforms as Aiyedatiwa Okays Recruitment of 500 Amotekun Officers
29th November, 2025
In a sweeping push to strengthen community-level security and revive grassroots justice, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the recruitment of 500 new Amotekun officers, alongside inaugurating 130 newly appointed Justices of the Peace (JPs) after nearly 17 years of inactivity.
The ceremony, held on Friday, November 28, marked the official restoration of the JP institution in the state—an office last activated in 2008. The Governor, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and the State Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, presided over the inauguration in what the administration described as a major step toward strengthening the rule of law and local dispute resolution.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the rebirth of the JP office aligns with the “Order, Security and the Rule of Law” pillar of his OUR EASE agenda, noting that the new appointees represent the State’s commitment to restoring justice mechanisms closest to the people. He emphasised that their role is a “sacred responsibility” requiring fairness, integrity and community-centered service.
The Governor also revealed fresh approval for the recruitment and training of 500 Amotekun officers—part of broader security reforms aimed at reinforcing the state’s internal security architecture. He urged the new JPs to work collaboratively with security agencies and local leaders to maintain peace and cohesion across communities.
Highlighting ongoing judicial reforms, Aiyedatiwa cited the hiring of additional state counsels, the expansion of judicial facilities and the near completion of a modern Judiciary Complex, featuring a ceremonial court, modular courts and a library—all intended to enhance timely and efficient justice delivery.
Attorney General Ajulo, in his remarks, traced the historical roots of the JP system to 14th-century England and its adoption in Nigeria during the colonial era. He noted that the new appointees were selected strictly on merit, integrity, moral standing and commitment to peace-building. He underscored their statutory powers under Section 12 of the Magistrates’ Court Law, stressing their critical role as intermediaries between the government and the people.
Chief Judge Odusola, represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath of office and laid out the responsibilities of the new JPs—including mediating disputes, maintaining public order, administrating oaths, and inspecting detention facilities to safeguard detainee rights. He further charged them to assist local policing efforts, mentor youth, support community leaders and help prevent conflicts.
Speaking on behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ’Seinde Arogbofa expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged unwavering commitment to strengthening justice and peace across the state. He called for inclusive engagement, particularly for rural communities, to ensure that the revived grassroots justice framework fulfils its mandate.
Among those inaugurated as JPs were top state officials and respected figures—including Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; leading traditional rulers such as the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo.
Also sworn in were heads of major security agencies in the State, diplomats, religious leaders including Bishop Felix Adejumo and Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi-Akorede, as well as notable professionals and community leaders.
