Amanze Chinonye
Governors from Nigeria’s southern states have issued a united call for the establishment of state police, describing it as “non-negotiable” for effective federalism and grassroots security amid rising kidnappings and violent extremism.
The Southern Governors’ Forum convened Wednesday at Iperu Remo, Ogun State, under the chairmanship of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Key attendees included Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Abia State’s Alex Otti, Ekiti’s Biodun Oyebanji, Ebonyi’s Francis Nwifuru, Enugu’s Peter Mbah, Anambra’s Charles Soludo, and deputies from Osun, Edo, Oyo, and Cross River states.
In his opening remarks, Abiodun warned of the growing insecurity across Nigeria, citing mass abductions in schools, religious centres, and rural communities.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhile praising President Tinubu’s prompt interventions in rescuing kidnapped students, he stressed that structural reforms were urgently needed. “The creation of state police remains a non-negotiable component of our collective demand for true federalism and effective grassroots security,” Abiodun said.
READ ALSO : Tinubu Declares National Emergency on Security, Orders Massive Deployment Across Crisis Zones
The governors discussed an integrated security framework emphasizing intelligence-sharing,early-warning systems, and protection for schools, farmlands, borders, and critical infrastructure. They also highlighted the role of traditional rulers as “links to the grassroots,” advocating for closer collaboration between local communities, security agencies, and hereditary leaders.
By the end of the session, the forum issued a unified resolution: State police should be prioritized to create “a policing system closer to the people, more responsive to local realities, and better equipped to address the rapidly evolving threats we face.” They pledged to pursue the agenda nationally while strengthening community vigilance and corridor surveillance to ensure peace and prosperity in the southern region.
The push comes amid a surge in insecurity that has strained federal resources. Analysts suggest that the governors’ coordinated stance could reshape ongoing debates over constitutional policing reforms, though northern opposition to decentralization remains a significant hurdle.
The forum has yet to set a timeline for follow-up actions but is reportedly planning to lobby the National Assembly soon.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
