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The Board Chairman, Osun Amotekun Corps, Wale Abbass, has dismissed insinuations that three casualties were recorded during the training for the new recruits into the corps, which started on Monday.
Abbass, who also denied claims that those recruited got the job through politicians while speaking with journalists at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ede, Osun State, on Friday, stated that the recruits that were decamped were those eliminated for various reasons that include health-related considerations, and illegal entry to the camp.
He said party affiliation was never part of the conditions for recruitment, adding that those decamped could still be reconsidered for placement.
“It’s not true that three people died in the camp. Those who were unconscious during the training are now recovering. This is the result of the efforts of certain individuals trying to exploit the situation for political gain.
“To the general public, I want to assure you that Osun Amotekun Corps remains steadfast in its commitment to serving all citizens impartially and without bias. The allegations that have been spread are not only false but are part of an orchestrated effort to create confusion and distrust.
“We implore those responsible for circulating these misleading and unverified claims to cease their actions immediately. Such misinformation serves no purpose other than to damage the integrity of an organisation that is working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the people of Osun State,” Abbass said.
Addressing alleged favouritism during the selection of applicants for the Amotekun job, the ex-police boss noted that the corps adhered to the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and fairness while accessing applications sent in by the job seekers.
He said, “The accusations that we engaged in partisan behaviour during the recruitment process are not only baseless but also malicious. The recruitment exercise was open, transparent, and merit-based, with no consideration given to political affiliations. The process was designed to ensure that only the most qualified individuals were selected to serve in our esteemed organisation.
“The 1,000 cadets who were invited to the camp underwent a rigorous selection process. They first submitted their application forms online, which were then reviewed for completeness and accuracy. Following that, we invited all applicants for further scrutiny, including submission of academic credentials and verification of results.
“Only those who passed these stages were invited to undergo physical screening and fitness tests. It was only after passing these thorough assessments that the selected candidates were invited to report to the camp.
“However, during the camp, it became apparent that some individuals who were not selected for training managed to gain access to the camp premises. Additionally, some of the selected candidates failed to arrive within the stipulated deadline.”
In addressing the situation, Abbass said the corps ensured that those who had not been selected were sent back home, while those who had health issues, as identified by the instructors, were also disqualified from training.
He continued, “This was done for the safety and well-being of the applicants and the integrity of the training process, as any unfit individual could have posed a risk to themselves and others.
“One disturbing incident that has been highlighted in the video circulating online involves a woman who arrived at the camp with a breastfeeding infant. This is completely against the policy of paramilitary training, which does not permit individuals with health conditions or those caring for young children to remain in the camp. This situation further underscores the importance of maintaining strict standards to ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations.
“It is deeply unfortunate that these applicants, who were rightfully discharged due to health concerns, have chosen to spread false information about the Corps. These actions are part of a deliberate campaign to damage the reputation of Osun Amotekun Corps and bring the organisation into disrepute.”
