Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed frustration over his inability to effectively tackle the recent wave of kidnappings and other security challenges, attributing his powerlessness to the federal government’s control over security agencies. Speaking at the acceptance of his presidential nomination by the African Peoples Movement (APM) in Ibadan on Saturday, Makinde highlighted the painful reality of innocent schoolchildren and citizens remaining in captivity.
He emphasized that while he bears the title of Chief Security Officer of the state, the constitutional constraints prevent him from commanding the security apparatus needed to address these threats decisively. Makinde argued that no elected leader should be held accountable for security failures without being granted the corresponding authority to act.
The governor’s remarks come amid ongoing security concerns in Oyo, where abductions have heightened public anxiety. He reiterated that the current structure leaves state governors helpless, calling for a re-evaluation of security governance to empower local leaders.