The youth wing of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State has faulted Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent remarks concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the debate surrounding state policing and the South-West security outfit, Amotekun.
In a statement released on Friday, the Oyo APC Youth Leader, Olalekan Glory, described the governor’s comments as misplaced, insisting that greater attention should be directed toward the security challenges confronting residents of Oyo State.
According to Glory, it was surprising for Governor Makinde to make comments on the country’s security structure while insecurity continues to affect several communities within the state.
He urged the governor to explain the measures being implemented to tackle issues such as kidnapping, armed robbery, communal clashes, and conflicts between farmers and herders.
The APC youth leader further stated that Amotekun was created to complement federal security agencies and not to replace a constitutionally recognised state police structure.
Defending President Tinubu’s position on state policing, Glory maintained that the issue requires extensive consultation and careful constitutional consideration.
He noted that the president understands the sensitivity of security reforms and believes such decisions must be guided by legality, caution, and national consensus.
Speaking on the absence of Lagos State in the Amotekun framework, Glory explained that different states had adopted varying security strategies based on their peculiar challenges.
According to him, Lagos State has continued to rely on community-based security initiatives as part of its grassroots security management approach.
He also called on the Oyo State Government to strengthen security operations, especially in rural communities where residents still face security threats.
Glory questioned the effectiveness of current intelligence gathering and coordination efforts in parts of the state experiencing persistent insecurity.
He, however, stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to improving national security through ongoing reforms and collaboration with state governments.
The APC youth leader concluded by urging political leaders across the country to focus on governance and constructive dialogue in addressing the nation’s security concerns.