The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has criticized Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent comments on insecurity in the state, accusing him of misrepresenting the constitutional responsibilities of state governors.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the party’s spokesperson, Olawale Sadare, rejected Makinde’s claim that his ability to tackle insecurity was limited because security structures are under the control of the Federal Government.
Sadare described the governor’s remarks as “a height of cluelessness, insincerity and criminal ineptitude,” insisting that Makinde should not deflect responsibility for the security challenges facing the state.
The opposition party argued that the governor’s comments reflected a lack of leadership and accountability, maintaining that elected officials must take responsibility for the safety and welfare of residents regardless of constitutional limitations.
The APC further called on Makinde to resign from office and allow his deputy to complete the remaining year of his administration.
“Parochial leaders like Makinde pose a grave danger to the growth and development of the Nigerian society, and it is important for the electorate to avoid them in future elections,” the statement said.
The party’s reaction followed comments made by Makinde while delivering his acceptance speech as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement in Ibadan on Saturday.
During the event, the governor lamented the recent abduction of schoolchildren and other residents by bandits in parts of Oyo State, stating that there was little he could do to directly address the situation because he does not exercise absolute control over security agencies operating in the state.
His remarks have since sparked political debate, with the APC accusing him of attempting to evade responsibility, while discussions continue over the role of state governments in addressing insecurity across the country.
