Insecurity: Akpodoro Urges Nigerians To Hold Governors, LG Chairmen Accountable, Criticises Makinde

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The Mayor of Urhobo Land and Head of the Urhobo Mayoral Family Crown, His Worship Dr. Eshanekpe Agimor Israel, popularly known as Akpodoro, has called on Nigerians to demand greater accountability from state governors and local government chairmen in addressing insecurity across the country.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Akpodoro argued that discussions on insecurity often focus solely on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while state and local government authorities receive less scrutiny despite their responsibilities within the nation’s security architecture.

According to him, the fight against insecurity requires the active involvement of all tiers of government, particularly state governments that receive monthly allocations and security votes.

The former Niger Delta agitator noted that the Tinubu administration has implemented major economic reforms and increased financial allocations to states and local governments, adding that citizens have a right to expect improved security and governance outcomes from public officials.

He urged Nigerians to pay closer attention to how resources available to states and local governments are being utilized, especially in the areas of public safety and community protection.

Akpodoro expressed concern over the continued incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in parts of the country, saying public office holders at all levels should work more closely with security agencies to address the challenge.

He also called on security agencies and the Office of the National Security Adviser to strengthen collaboration with state authorities in tackling insecurity and ensuring that anyone found aiding criminal activities is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
According to him, governors, as chief executives of their states, have important roles to play in supporting security agencies operating within their jurisdictions.

“Citizens expect to see the impact of government spending in the area of security. The protection of lives and property remains one of the most important responsibilities of government at every level,” he said.

Akpodoro further stated that reports of the involvement of some public officials in criminal activities in recent times underscore the need for vigilance, transparency, and stronger institutional oversight.

He also referenced recent security concerns in Oyo State and urged Governor Seyi Makinde to continue working with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to secure the safe return of abducted victims and strengthen security measures across the state.

While acknowledging that security remains a collective responsibility, Akpodoro maintained that governors and local government chairmen should take a more visible role in supporting efforts to combat crime and reassure citizens.

He called for greater cooperation among federal, state, and local authorities, stressing that a coordinated approach is necessary to effectively address the country’s security challenges.

According to him, lasting progress can only be achieved when all levels of government work together and remain accountable to the people they serve.