Governors from Nigeria's South-West region have issued a powerful and united declaration, stating that the establishment of state police is an urgent national necessity that can no longer be postponed. The decisive stance was made public during the South-West Governors' Forum meeting held on Monday in Ibadan, Ogun State.
A Unified Front for Decentralized Policing
The forum, which saw the attendance of Governors Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, alongside the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mr. Kola Adewusi, left no room for ambiguity. The communiqué, presented by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, firmly declared, "The time is now. State police can no longer be delayed."
This position reinforces their long-standing advocacy for the decentralization of the country's policing structure to more effectively address unique security challenges within the region. The governors argued that this move is critical to strengthening security mechanisms at the local level.
Concrete Security Measures Announced
Beyond the call for state police, the forum announced several immediate, actionable strategies to bolster regional safety. A key decision was the approval to establish a South-West Security Fund (SWSF). This fund will be managed by the DAWN Commission and administered through a monthly meeting of the Forum of Special Advisers on Security from all six South-West states.
Recognizing the need for modern intelligence gathering, the governors also resolved to create a digital intelligence-sharing platform for real-time communication across the states. This system is designed to facilitate the swift exchange of threat notifications, incident reports, and traveller alerts, enabling a coordinated rapid response to security incidents.
The communiqué also raised an alarm over criminal activities linked to forested areas and unregulated movement across state borders. The governors called on the Federal Government to enhance forest surveillance and help deploy Forest Guards, with state governments providing the personnel. Furthermore, they pledged to intensify border monitoring and collaborate with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to properly identify migrants and curb insecurity.
Broader Regional Concerns and Commendations
The meeting also addressed other critical issues, including illegal mining, which was described as a direct threat to environmental safety, public health, and regional security. The forum advocated for a comprehensive licensing framework and stricter enforcement against violators.
Amidst these security concerns, the governors expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu, commending his efforts in tackling insecurity and implementing economic reforms. They also showed solidarity with the Federal Government concerning recent kidnappings in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger states, applauding the swift response in rescuing victims.
On a positive note, the forum commended local farmers for increased agricultural output, which has contributed to food price stability. They also thanked the President for establishing the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), urging it to deliver effectively on its mandate.
In conclusion, the governors called for unity among the citizens of the region, emphasizing their commitment to the religious tolerance for which the South-West is known.
