News in Brief:
– Ekiti state has launched the Agro Marshals, a security force to protect farms, schools, and palaces.
– This move aims to improve safety in rural areas and boost food security as the protective outfit work alongside existing police forces.
Ekiti state’s governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has inaugurated a new security outfit, the Ekiti Agro Marshals, to safeguard farmlands, schools, and palaces across the state. This plan aims to create a safer environment for agricultural activities, education, and cultural heritage, ultimately contributing to food security and social harmony.
Speaking at the passing out parade of the marshals in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji highlighted several factors that led to the establishment of this local security force. These include a presidential directive to governors to protect farmlands and forests, recommendations from the state’s security council, and suggestions from traditional rulers.
Scope of Agro Marshals’ duties and responsibilities in Ekiti state
The governor emphasized that the Agro Marshals are designed to complement existing security agencies, not replace them. Their primary function is to protect farmlands, palaces, and schools. To this end they are to leverage their local knowledge and understanding of the communities they serve to gather intelligence.
Furthermore, he stressed to the marshals, the importance of respecting human rights and acting within the confines of the Nigerian constitution while carrying out their duties. He expressed confidence that through collaboration between the Marshals and established security forces, Ekiti State can become a model of safety within the country.
Responding, the Commander of the Marshals, Rtd. ACP Olamide Oni, assured the Governor that the Marshals have received proper training to effectively discharge their duties and maintain peace in farmlands and forests.
Also, the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ilori Faboro, pledged the support of traditional leaders for the Marshals. This he said was in recognition of their potential role in enhancing security within Ekiti State.
