Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have called for a security overhaul of Nigeria’s security structure following recent attacks in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Members of the party’s Board of Trustees and Interim National Working Committee made the call during a visit to Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan.
The delegation was led by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and Kabiru Turaki.
Speaking after the meeting, Turaki said the visit was aimed at commiserating with the Oyo State Government and residents over the recent security incidents recorded in parts of the state.
He noted that despite efforts by Governor Makinde to strengthen security across Oyo State, the attacks had exposed weaknesses in the country’s current security arrangement.
Raised Concerns Over Current Security Structure
Turaki stated that the country’s security architecture urgently requires reform, arguing that governors lack adequate authority over security agencies operating within their states.
According to him, it is contradictory for governors to be described as chief security officers while they do not have direct operational control over police and military formations in their states.
He explained that delays caused by the need to obtain approvals from Abuja often affect timely responses to security threats.
“You cannot imagine a situation where a governor convenes a Security Council meeting and decisions are taken, yet security commanders must still wait for clearance before acting,” he said.
He added that such delays could worsen security situations before necessary approvals are granted.
Security, An Important Responsibility of the Govt
The PDP leaders acknowledged Governor Makinde’s investments in security and efforts aimed at protecting lives and property in Oyo State.
However, they expressed concern that violent incidents still occurred despite the resources committed to maintaining peace in the state.
The delegation stressed that security remains one of the most important responsibilities of government and should be treated with urgency.
Calls for Urgent Reform
The party leaders urged the Federal Government to initiate reforms that would strengthen coordination between state governments and security agencies.
They also stressed the need for improved intelligence gathering, faster response systems and stronger collaboration among security institutions.
The recent attacks in Oyo State have continued to trigger reactions from political leaders, security experts and community groups, many of whom believe urgent reforms are necessary to address rising insecurity across the country.
