Insecurity is a pervasive phenomenon that differs in intensity throughout nations worldwide including Nigeria. In response, the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun) was established to address rising insecurity in south-west region of Nigeria. Yet, Oyo and Ondo states continue to experience incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, farmers-herders conflicts, and communal violence. This study therefore examines operational challenges of Amotekun in Oyo and Ondo States. The study adopted a descriptive research design using qualitative and quantitative approaches of data collection. A total of 820 Respondents were drawn using purposive and strata sampling techniques based on the population of both states. A total of 770 copies of questionnaire were retrieved back and analysed using descriptive analysis and 12 Key informant interview and In-depth interview sessions were successfully conducted. Findings of the study showed that Amotekun’s effectiveness is hindered by weak inter-agency collaboration, in-adequate funding, shortage of trained personnel, and flaws in the recruitment process. Furthermore, lack of advanced weaponry, coupled with an insufficient legal framework for prosecuting offenders, severely limits Amotekun’s capacity to effectively address the rising security threats in both states. This study therefore concluded that in-spite of its strategic importance as a community-based security outfit, Amotekun continues to face significant operational challenges in Oyo and Ondo States, thereby recommended that State governments should prioritise stable funding mechanisms, possibly through budgetary allocations, recruitment of qualified and regular training of personnel to ensure that Amotekun has the financial resources to operate effectively.
Ayodele et al. (2026) studied this question.