Governor Seyi Makinde Champions the Cause for State Police in Nigeria
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has fervently championed the establishment of state police as an imperative solution to effectively combat the escalating security challenges affecting various regions of Nigeria.
The governor conveyed this stance during a meeting with the Conference of Speakers of State Legislators, South-West Chapter, led by Ekiti State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon.
Adeoye Aribasoye, where he underscored the refusal of the Federal Government to approve the South-West Governors’ request for state police a few years ago.
Historical Context: Amotekun’s Creation and Federal Approval Hurdle
Governor Makinde referred to the creation of the Western Nigeria Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, as a regional response to the absence of state police approval.
The visit by the South-West Chapter of the Conference of Speakers primarily focused on the January 16 explosion in Bodija.
During the discussions, Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of collaboration between the executive and legislative branches for effective governance.
Governance Synergy: Collaboration for Democratic Dividends
Makinde stressed the need for all elected officials, irrespective of political affiliations, to collaborate in delivering the dividends of democracy.
He emphasized the post-election period as a time for unified governance to serve the people effectively.
State Police Necessity: Dismissing Concerns and Citing Oyo State Example
Discussing the security challenges in Nigeria, Governor Makinde reiterated the necessity of establishing state police, dismissing concerns that states would struggle to maintain such a force.
Drawing on Oyo State’s example, Makinde highlighted that the payment of salaries and pensions has consistently been managed effectively, even amid economic challenges.
Federal Responsibility: Makinde Calls for Access to Resources for State Policing
Makinde argued that since the police are on the exclusive list, states should be granted access to resources from the federation account if they assume the responsibility of running their police systems.
He emphasized the need for a paradigm shift to evaluate the capability of states in maintaining state police once granted the responsibility.
Push for Change: Legislators Encouraged to Play Role in Establishing State Police
The governor urged lawmakers to play a pivotal role in pushing for the establishment of state police, emphasizing the critical role of legislators in making this initiative a reality.
Makinde underscored the importance of securing the approval and cooperation of the Federal Government to address the security concerns effectively.