Federal Government Declares Operation Amotekun Illegal
LAGOS JANUARY 14TH (NEWSRANGERS)-Just about few days after the inauguration of a security outfit known as Amotekun by South-West states, the Federal Government has declared the paramilitary outfit as illegal as it is not backed by any known law in the land.
It is noted that the Attorney General of the Federation made the feeling of the government known in a statement made available to Vanguard on Tuesday.
In reference to the statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Dr Umar Gwandu, the government said the issue of defence and security fell under the exclusive list and not with the state.
The statement reads in part, “The
setting up of the paramilitary organization called “Amotekun” is illegal and
runs contrary to the provisions of the Nigerian law.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) has
established the Army, Navy and Airforce, including the Police and other
numerous paramilitary organisations for the purpose of the defence of Nigeria.
“As a consequence of this, no State Government,
whether singly or in a group has the legal right and competence to establish
any form of organization or agency for the defence of Nigeria or any of its
constituent parts.
“This is sanctioned by the provision of Item 45 of the Second Schedule of the
constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) authorizing the
Police and other Federal Government security services established by law to
maintain law and order.
“The law will take its natural course in relation to excesses associated with
organization, administration and participation in “Amotekun” or continuous
association with it as an association.
“Finally, it is important to put on record that the Office of the Attorney
General and Minister of Justice was not consulted on the matter.
“If it had, proper information and guidance would have been offered to ensure
that Nigeria’s defence and corporate entity are preserved at all times.
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Posted by News Rangers
on Jan 14 2020. Filed under National.
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