The attention of the Kwara State Government has been drawn to recent remarks by certain opposition figures in the State .
The opposition hype coming on the heels of the unfortunate attacks by criminal elements in Ifelodun Local Government Area, warrant some clarification.
First, it is important to state that no responsible government would look the other way while its citizens face the menace of insecurity. The AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration has consistently demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through proactive support to security agencies, investment in community policing structures, and the training of local forest guards and strategic engagement of traditional institutions for the same purpose .
We urge stakeholders to resist the temptation of politicising insecurity. The challenge of insecurity is not peculiar to Kwara State; it is a national emergency that affects every part of the federation. To suggest otherwise is to diminish the sacrifices of those on the frontline and to trivialise the collective efforts required to overcome this scourge.
It is also necessary to remind the public that while acknowledging consistent leadership commitment of the President and his personal interventions in support of Security Agencies and State Governments , state governments in Nigeria operate within constitutional limitations ..
Governors neither command the armed forces nor the police, nor can they deploy weapons independently. Security is a joint responsibility that requires close coordination with federal authorities, which Governor AbdulRazaq continues to pursue with vigour.
While we acknowledge the right of citizens and leaders to express their opinions, it serves no useful purpose for political actors to make comments that appear more designed for applause than for solutions.
The government of Kwara State remains unwavering in its resolve to work with all stakeholders — traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and the Federal Government — to confront insecurity. The State Government will continue to deploy resources essentially towards social security and non-kinetic solutions to the security imbroglio whilst enhancing its material and moral support to our gallant security forces .
We call for unity, sobriety, and collective responsibility in addressing this national challenge, rather than glee or mockery in moments of grief.
His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq once again commiserates with the families of all victims of the Oke Ode attack and assures the good people of Kwara that every measure within the law will continue to be taken to protect lives and secure communities.
– Adigun is the Special Adviser on Media to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
