Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has entered the discourse surrounding security reforms in Nigeria, offering criticism of the submission of memoranda on state police by other governors. During a television program on Friday night, Governor Makinde denounced these memoranda as a “waste of time,” contending that they hinder rather than expedite progress towards enhancing the efficiency of the police force.
Expressing his perspective, Governor Makinde clarified that his decision not to submit a memorandum was not rooted in arrogance but rather stemmed from a belief in pursuing alternative avenues. However, he refrained from elaborating on his preferred solution to the issue at hand.
Makinde’s remarks add fuel to the ongoing debate on security reforms in Nigeria, underscoring the diversity of opinions and approaches among state governors regarding the establishment of state police forces. By questioning the efficacy of memoranda in driving substantive change, Makinde prompts reflection on the most effective strategies for addressing the nation’s security challenges.
The governor’s stance reflects a broader sentiment among stakeholders regarding the need for innovative and pragmatic solutions to Nigeria’s security issues. Makinde’s critique of the memoranda process suggests a desire for more action-oriented measures that prioritize tangible results over bureaucratic procedures.
As the discourse on security reforms continues to evolve, Governor Makinde’s critique serves as a catalyst for deeper deliberation and exploration of alternative strategies for enhancing law enforcement and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
“My position is very clear about state police,” Makinde said. “I see it (memoranda) quite frankly, as a waste of our time… You are asking the states to submit memoranda on how state police will work.
“I did not submit not because of arrogance but because I don’t think the approach will quickly get us to where we want to go. You are asking the states to submit memoranda on how state police will work.”
Makinde’s comments come after the National Economic Council (NEC) confirmed receiving memoranda from 16 governors expressing support for state police as a solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.
He argued that the issue must pass through the parliament since it is a constitutional matter before being replicated at the state houses of assembly.
“The National Assembly, they know what to do. They have people that can quickly do this work. It is not the National Security Adviser or the National Economic Council that will deal with the issue of state police.
“It is a constitutional thing and should go to the National Assembly and then at the state level, we get our state houses of assembly to pass this law,” the governor said.
The debate on state police is likely to continue, with Makinde’s comments highlighting the need for a more concrete plan to address Nigeria’s security issues.