The Amotekun Corps commander in Osun, Brig.-Gen. Bashir Adewunmbi (rtd) has called for the outfit’s upgrade to a state policing system across the country’s South-West region.

Mr Adewunmbi said in an interview on Sunday in Osogbo that such development will further strengthen the region’s security architecture and ensure the safety of lives and property.

The corps commander said upgrading Amotekun to state a police outfit would enhance effective community policing in the South-West.

“It will foster closer ties between the people and security agencies and enhance intelligence sharing for a more effective fight against crime,” he said.

Mr Adewunmbi further said such upgrading should grant the outfit access to sophisticated arms and ammunition for optimal performance.

“It will also empower them to prosecute criminals in courts; this will be a step in the right direction,” he said.

He said Amotekun had demonstrated the capacity to perform better if upgraded, saying, ”It has shown rare bravery in fighting crime.”

“I am in full support of the call for state police. It will help to complement the efforts of other security agencies.

“We need security personnel that understand the terrain to be part of the system,” he said.

(NAN)