Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Ruth .J
Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Seyi Makinde, has called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria's security architecture, arguing that state governors are routinely held responsible for insecurity despite lacking the constitutional authority to direct security agencies operating within their states.
On Friday, July 10, 2026, Governor Seyi Makinde made the remarks in Bauchi, Bauchi State, during a visit to Governor Bala Mohammed. Makinde was accompanied by the National Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Yusuf Dantalle. The closed-door meeting focused on security, governance and political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections, after which the leaders addressed journalists on the outcome of their discussions.
Responding to questions on the security situation in Oyo State, Makinde said governors often shoulder public criticism whenever violent incidents occur, even though they do not have operational control over the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) or other federal security agencies.
Drawing a comparison with the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in Borno State, Makinde recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan faced widespread criticism over the incident. He argued that state governors now experience similar public expectations despite lacking the constitutional powers to direct security operations in their respective states.
According to the governor, Nigeria's security framework should be restructured to ensure that responsibility is matched with the authority required to carry it out effectively. He stated that assigning responsibility without granting the necessary powers creates challenges for governors who are expected to guarantee the safety of lives and property in their states.
Makinde added that reviewing the country's security architecture would be one of the priorities of the Allied Peoples Movement if the party receives the mandate of Nigerians in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking after the meeting, Governor Bala Mohammed said the discussions also centred on strengthening a credible and constructive opposition capable of presenting alternative policy options to Nigerians ahead of the next general elections. He noted that political consultations would continue as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
APM National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle also addressed journalists, expressing confidence in the party's prospects in the forthcoming elections. He criticised what he described as the Federal Government's response to reports of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa and also expressed concern over recent developments in the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, Governor Makinde welcomed the successful rescue of schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims regained their freedom after spending 57 days in captivity following a coordinated security operation announced by the Presidency on Friday.
Describing the development as "a big relief," the governor thanked the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, other security agencies and President Bola Tinubu for their efforts in securing the release of the victims.
Makinde said the safe return of the abductees brought relief not only to their families but also to the entire state, adding that he would provide further comments after fully processing the emotional impact of the development. The party leaders also said they would continue consultations with stakeholders across Nigeria in the coming months as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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