Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde has said that he cannot fully resolve Nigeria’s insecurity until he becomes president, as current state governors lack constitutional control over federal security agencies.
He made this remark while accepting the Allied People’s Movement (APM) Presidential Nomination for the 2027 general elections.
Makinde argued that although he holds the title of Chief Security Officer in Oyo State, responsibility without necessary authority such as command over the police, renders governors relatively incapacitated during crises.
He has called for the decentralization of national security and the establishment of state police.
His recent remarks follow a rise in kidnappings and abductions in the state, including the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire local government.
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.
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.
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