The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has blamed the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for what it described as a surge in kidnappings, violent attacks, and other security breaches across the state. The opposition party called for immediate action to secure the release of abducted school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
Allegations of Neglect
In a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC expressed concern over recent incidents of abductions, including the kidnapping of students and teachers in two communities in Oriire LGA, as well as the abduction of two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Idi Ayunre, Oluyole Local Government Area.
The party accused Governor Makinde, who is constitutionally regarded as the Chief Security Officer of the state, of failing to take decisive steps to curb insecurity. It alleged that his administration had shifted blame to the Federal Government while neglecting its responsibilities.
Criticism of Security Management
The APC further alleged that traditional rulers and other key stakeholders had been sidelined in security coordination, while significant resources were spent on vehicles and surveillance equipment without corresponding results. It claimed that despite reports of the procurement of surveillance aircraft, there had been little evidence of their deployment in tackling insecurity.
The party also criticised the administration’s handling of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, alleging poor welfare, inadequate remuneration, and improper deployment of personnel. According to the APC, the corps had been “poorly treated and poorly equipped,” limiting its effectiveness.
Inconsistency on State Police
Reacting to Governor Makinde’s recent remarks advocating the establishment of state police, the APC accused him of inconsistency, alleging that the governor had previously described the proposal as a “waste of time.” It recalled that during a Channels Television interview, Makinde was quoted as opposing the idea of state police at the time of earlier national discussions, before later supporting it.
The party also questioned the management of security funding, including security votes, insisting that the resources had not translated into improved safety for residents.
Urgent Call for Action
“Gov. Makinde should sit up and rescue all abductees immediately,” the statement added. The APC urged the state government to take urgent and coordinated action to secure the release of the abducted students, teachers, and other victims currently in captivity, while calling for a comprehensive review of the state’s security architecture.
