The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has made a strong case for comprehensive security reforms in Nigeria, calling for the establishment of State Police as a strategic solution to the country’s growing insecurity.
Speaking at the Legislative Dialogue on Nigeria’s Security Architecture held in Abuja, Ogundoyin addressed key national stakeholders on the urgent need to restructure Nigeria’s security framework to better serve and protect its citizens.
“As Presiding Officers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly, we witness firsthand the devastating impact of insecurity across Nigeria, from insurgency in the Northeast to banditry, kidnappings, and the farmer-herder clashes threatening food security in the South,” he said.
Ogundoyin commended the sacrifices and service of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies but acknowledged the limits of the existing centralized security arrangement, which he described as “overstretched and inadequate” in addressing the multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security challenges.
“The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria firmly believes that State Police is not just a political proposition but a patriotic and strategic necessity,” Ogundoyin stated.
He emphasized that with well-defined constitutional safeguards, independent oversight mechanisms, and clear command structures, decentralized policing could significantly improve justice delivery, local accountability, and grassroots security across the country.
“We owe it to Nigeria and future generations to take decisive legislative action for a safer, more secure nation,” Ogundoyin added.
The Speaker also paid tribute to the countless Nigerians who have lost their lives to insecurity, praying for the repose of their souls and reiterating the moral and constitutional responsibility of leaders to enact meaningful change.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the legislative dialogue is part of ongoing efforts to explore innovative and sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s complex security challenges through institutional and constitutional reforms.
Participants at the event include heads of security agencies, anti graft bodies, national assembly members, and other security stakeholders in the country.