The governors of Anambra and Imo States, Charles Soludo and Hope Uzodinma yesterday accused the federal government of not doing enough to tackle insecurity.
They spoke at the induction programme of new and returning governors organised by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Soludo said the federal government has to a large extent failed to guarantee the security of lives and property, compelling states to do it on their own.
According to him, state police is the way to go.
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“I’m glad that the president-elect has committed to state police and that’s really the way to go in a federal structure. The vigilante services of various states are backed by law,” he said.
Also speaking, Uzodinma said: “I want to agree with the governor of Anambra State, Prof. Soludo.
“In all, what I’ve been saying is that the federal security architecture is somehow. But the common problem I’ve been able to see is the funding gaps among the agencies.”
National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, urged state governors to act on early warning signs of insecurity and deliver good governance in their states to end insecurity.
Monguno, represented by Joseph Dahwuep, said: “Elections are over, this is the time for good governance. Please, endeavour to ensure an inclusive government to enable you have good governance at the state levels
“Nigeria is not an exception to the insecurity. Insecurity is a global item now. Security includes good governance and human rights of all. Security includes reducing poverty and unemployment at the state levels. Without security, there won’t be security. It is easier to manage insecurity when you listen to early warning signs from stakeholders.”
Similarly, Director-General, Department of State Service, represented by Tier Mohammed urged the incoming governors to always work on early security warnings.
The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali, represented by AIG Bala Ciroma, asked governors to reduce poverty and unemployment.