The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has taken a swipe at Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent remarks on the security challenges facing the state, accusing him of failing to live up to his responsibilities as the state’s chief executive.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the party’s spokesperson, Olawale Sadare, the APC expressed dissatisfaction with Makinde’s position that his ability to tackle insecurity is limited because security agencies operate under the control of the Federal Government.
The opposition party argued that such comments misrepresent the constitutional responsibilities of governors and should not be used as an excuse for the growing security concerns in Oyo State. According to the APC, the governor’s remarks reflected a lack of commitment to addressing the challenges confronting residents.
The party described the governor’s comments in strong terms, accusing him of attempting to shift responsibility for the worsening security situation rather than providing leadership and practical solutions.
The APC further maintained that Makinde cannot distance himself from the insecurity affecting the state, insisting that the office he occupies comes with a duty to coordinate efforts and ensure the safety of citizens.
Going a step further, the party called on the governor to resign from office, suggesting that his deputy should be allowed to complete the remainder of the administration’s tenure.
The statement also warned voters against supporting leaders whom it described as lacking the capacity to drive meaningful growth and development, arguing that such leadership could hinder the progress of society.
The APC’s reaction followed comments attributed to Governor Makinde during his acceptance speech as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement in Ibadan on Saturday. During the address, the governor reportedly lamented the limitations faced by state governors in dealing with cases of kidnapping and other security threats, noting that they do not exercise full control over security agencies.
While Makinde maintained that governors lack absolute authority over the nation’s security structures, the APC rejected the argument, insisting that elected leaders must be held accountable for the security and welfare of the people under their watch.
