Okpebholo urges govs to tackle insecurity

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has called on Nigeria's 36 state governors to assume greater responsibility for addressing insecurity within their respective domains. He asserted that President Bola Tinubu should not bear the sole blame for the country's persistent security challenges, emphasizing the need for a decentralized approach.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Okpebholo argued that tackling insecurity necessitates a collective effort across all government tiers. He pointed out the logistical impossibility of the President being physically present throughout the nation simultaneously. "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot come to Edo or visit all the states at the same time because he is just one person. If I protect Edo State and every other governor protects their states, insecurity will become a thing of the past," he stated.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot come to Edo or visit all the states at the same time because he is just one person. If I protect Edo State and every other governor protects their states, insecurity will become a thing of the past.

The governor criticized individuals and opposition politicians who exclusively blame the President, suggesting they overlook the constitutional duties of state governments. He also questioned the actions of former governors and vice presidents regarding security during their tenures. Okpebholo stressed that enhanced commitment from state governments to protect lives and property would significantly contribute to reducing insecurity nationwide, framing it as a matter of "sub-national responsibility."

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Many governors are working hard to solve security challenges across the nation. Governors should take charge of their various states and address the security situation. This is what is called sub-national responsibility, and it will help solve the problem.