The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent remarks on insecurity in the state, accusing him of failing in his constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC faulted Makinde’s claim that his ability to tackle insecurity is limited because security agencies are under the control of the Federal Government.
The opposition party described the governor’s comments as an attempt to shift responsibility for the worsening security situation in Oyo State, particularly following the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to the APC, governors are elected to provide leadership and ensure the safety of residents regardless of constitutional limitations regarding control of security agencies.
The party argued that previous administrations in the state successfully maintained security through collaboration with relevant stakeholders and strategic support for security agencies.
The APC also accused Makinde of using the security crisis to advance his reported 2027 presidential ambition, insisting that the governor should focus on addressing the challenges facing the state.
The party further called on Makinde to step down from office if he believes he lacks the capacity to effectively manage the state’s security concerns.
The controversy followed remarks by the governor during a political event in Ibadan, where he renewed his support for the creation of state police and maintained that governors require greater authority over security structures to effectively combat crime.
Makinde had argued that the recent wave of kidnappings and insecurity highlighted the need for constitutional reforms that would allow states to establish and manage their own police forces.
The exchange has intensified political debates in Oyo State over security, governance, and preparations for the 2027 general elections.
