Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has once again amplified the national debate on restructuring Nigeria’s security framework, arguing that genuine and sustainable security can only emerge when the law allows communities to participate directly in their own protection.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 13th anniversary of Gallery Security Services Limited in Agadagba-Obon, Ese-Odo LGA, Mimiko used the platform to highlight the “legal and structural limitations” of Nigeria’s current centralised security model. He emphasized that the Constitution’s exclusive control of policing by the Federal Government has continued to hinder rapid, localised response to threats, especially in riverine and hard-to-reach communities.
Mimiko, who chaired the event, explained that Gallery Security Services—founded by High Chief Bibopere Ajube—has demonstrated a practical example of what locally designed, community-embedded security can achieve when permitted to complement national forces. According to him, the outfit’s interventions over the last 13 years have drastically reduced kidnapping, sea piracy, and other violent crimes across the Ondo, Edo, Ogun, and Lagos waterways.
He noted: “If we are serious about ending insecurity, the law must evolve. What Gallery has achieved here is a case study in the effectiveness of decentralised models. It proves that security designed around local knowledge is far superior to a distant, overburdened federal structure.”
The incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa—represented by his deputy, Olaide Adelani—affirmed the state government’s willingness to deepen partnership with credible private security organisations. He described such collaboration as essential in addressing modern security challenges beyond the capacity of conventional agencies.
Former NDDC Managing Director, Ndutimi Alaibe, and former PAP Chairman, Kingsley Kuku, also praised Ajube’s efforts, noting that peace in the Niger Delta remains a prerequisite for development, stability, and foreign investment. Kuku, who delivered the keynote address titled “From Creeks of Niger Delta to Global Eminence,” argued that regions that resolve insecurity through community-driven initiatives often achieve faster socio-economic transformation.
The anniversary event attracted a wide range of dignitaries including Elder Godsday Orubebe, SAN Olusola Oke, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin (Olowo of Owo), and other traditional rulers who described the Gallery model as a blueprint for future security reforms.
For now, Mimiko’s renewed call adds to the growing chorus urging constitutional amendments to decentralise policing—an issue critics say is long overdue in light of worsening insecurity nationwide.
