June 14, 2021

Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday reiterated the need to decentralise the operations of the security apparatus of state even within the existing legal framework.

This formed part of the resolutions reached at the end of the meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

According to the governors, this is to ensure the input of local operators in State and Local Governments in policing and security.

The governors lamented the fact that Mr President seems not to be aware that the coercive instruments of State security are firmly within his hands and not the Governors.

“This is considering his recent media interview on the subject”. The meeting reminded Mr. President that he has ultimate authority under the Constitution over security organisations, even though the States have a role to play.

The Communique added that cooperation and synergy between States and the Federal Government in security operations are critical in securing Nigeria.

“In any case, even though, Police are on the Exclusive List, the States, as a practical matter spend huge sums of money to support the security agencies to carry out their duties”.

The need for an appropriate legal framework to involve the States in policing has become even more urgent by the day.

“To this end, we reiterate our call for the National Assembly to expedite action in passing the Electoral Act and Constitution amendments to ensure restructuring and decentralisation of governmental powers and functions,” the communique read in part.