The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, has reiterated the need for a national security overhaul, emphasizing that the current centralized policing structure has become overstretched and ineffective.
The Chairman of the Conference, Hon. Ogundoyin made the call at a Legislative Dialogue on Nigeria’s Security Architecture, themed “Nigeria’s Peace and Security: The Constitutional Imperatives” in Abuja
Highlighting the devastating impact of insecurity nationwide, Hon. Ogundoyin detailed the widespread challenges plaguing Nigeria—from insurgency in the Northeast to banditry and kidnappings in the North and the herder-farmer clashes in the South, which threaten food security.
”As Presiding Officers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly, we are firsthand witnesses to the alarming toll that insecurity continues to exact on lives, livelihoods, and governance. This Dialogue is therefore an opportunity to align our legislative priorities with the realities faced by our people, ensuring that the Constitution and legal frameworks governing security evolve to meet present and future challenges. The Conference of Speakers stands fully committed to supporting this vision. We are ready to play our part in ushering in a new era of constitutional clarity and national security reforms. We owe this to our people. We owe it to Nigeria and we owe it to the next generation.”
He stressed that while the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies have made commendable sacrifices, the centralized policing structure is no longer adequate to meet the security demands of the country.
“It is now evident that the centralized policing structure, no matter how well-intentioned, has become overstretched,” Ogundoyin declared.
He passionately urged lawmakers and stakeholders to embrace State Police as a constitutional imperative, asserting that it is not merely a political move but a patriotic and strategic necessity.
Acknowledging concerns regarding potential misuse, jurisdictional conflicts, and operational capacity, the Conference Chairman reassured stakeholders that these challenges can be addressed through legislative clarity, independent oversight mechanisms, and well-defined frameworks for inter-agency collaboration.
Beyond advocating for State Police, Hon. Ogundoyin also underscored the need for: enhanced intelligence sharing and inter-agency coordination, improved funding, training, and welfare for security personnel, a stronger legal framework to address emerging threats such as cybercrime and transnational terrorism
The Oyo State House of Assembly Speaker emphasized that security reform is a constitutional necessity, urging lawmakers to prioritize legislative action to reshape Nigeria’s security framework for the benefit of current and future generations.
“May the souls of all Nigerians who have lost their lives needlessly to insecurity rest in perfect peace,” Hon. Ogundoyin prayed.
