Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has ignited a fresh debate on Nigeria's security architecture after stating that he cannot fully address the country's worsening insecurity until he becomes president in 2027. The governor made the remark on Saturday in Ibadan while accepting the presidential nomination of the African People's Movement, amid growing concerns over kidnappings and abductions in Oyo State and other parts of the country.
Governor Laments Limited Powers
Makinde noted that although governors are often referred to as chief security officers of their states, they do not have constitutional control over the security agencies needed to effectively tackle insecurity. He lamented the continued captivity of abducted schoolchildren and other residents in Oyo State, describing the situation as painful. "Today, innocent schoolchildren and citizens abducted by criminals remain in captivity in Oyo State," he said.
Call for Security Restructuring
He argued that governors should not be held fully responsible for security outcomes without the authority to act decisively, calling for a restructuring of Nigeria's security system. Looking ahead to 2027, Makinde pledged that if elected president, he would prioritize security reforms, including decentralisation of security management to give states greater capacity to respond to local threats. "As President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by the grace of God, I will work to reform our national security architecture so that states are no longer left helpless in moments of crisis," he said.
He added that Nigeria needs a new approach to governance and security, stressing that leadership must be based on accountability, competence, and effective action.
