Human Rights activist and lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, has
urged the federal government to compensate the families of those involved in the recent stampedes in parts of the country.
Falana made the call Friday in Akure during a programme organised by the Ondo state government tagged Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series to honour the late governor.
The topic of the lecture was Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace Stability and Development; The Ondo State Example.
Falana blamed the Nigerian Police for the recent stampedes in Ibadan, Anambra and Abuja where over 65 people died in the process of collecting palliatives.
“It was failure of security; it’s not poverty that caused all the loss of lives. If there is any process, or gathering, they (Police) shall provide security,” he said.
Falana said Ondo state had become a reference point for states in the country by ensuring peace in the state through the creation of Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun by Akeredolu.
He said Akeredolu dared the federal government to create the state Amotekun which could be likened to a state police.
Falana also said the greatest tribute to the legacy of Akeredolu was the recent meeting by all the 36 governors in Abuja with the federal government for the creation of state police.
Falana commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the legacies of late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo state.
“The greatest tribute that can be paid to Akeredolu since he passed on has come from unexpected quarters. The president and governors recently met and approved the creation of state police in Nigeria.
“That is the greatest tribute. Ondo state has exported the Amotekun phenomenal to Nigeria.
Later, Governor Aiyedatiwa said he remained the number one legacy of Akeredolu, who made no mistake about who would succeed him.
He said his predecessor must be celebrated for his selfless service and fight for the advancement of democracy and rule of law in the country.
“Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the Rule of Law in our country.
“His leadership was not only marked by integrity, transparency and a deep understanding of the needs of our people, Akeredolu also implemented various initiatives geared towards transforming Ondo state,” he said.
Earlier, the chairman of the occasion, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, commended Falana for always speaking for the masses and acknowledged the legacies of Akeredolu.
Also, a former speaker of the House of Assembly and chairman, SUBEB, Victor Olabitman, lauded Aiyedatiwa for continuing the legacies and projects initiated by Akeredolu. (NAN)