South-West Governors Renew Call for State Police, Launch Regional Security Fund

…As Forum urges Federal Government to act swiftly as region tackles rising security threats.

…As Regional bloc calls for tighter border control, intelligence sharing and stronger inter-state cooperation.

The South-West Governors’ Forum has renewed its call on the Federal Government to expedite the creation of state police, warning that further delay poses increased risks to national security.

The demand was made during an emergency security meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State, convened to address the rising influx of suspected criminal elements into the region and other pressing security concerns.

The meeting, chaired by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ended with the presentation of a communiqué at the Oyo State Governor’s Office, Agodi.

According to the Forum, state police has become an urgent necessity to strengthen law enforcement, improve rapid response, and enhance community-level security across the South-West.

As part of new measures to reinforce security, the governors also announced the establishment of a South-West Security Fund.
The Fund is expected to support regional security operations, drive development initiatives and enhance cooperation among the six states.

The Forum commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing efforts to combat insecurity nationwide. It also expressed solidarity with the Federal Government over recent security incidents in Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states.

The emergency meeting examined several issues affecting the region, including: Rising security threats, Agricultural development, Economic stability, and Regional integration.

The governors reaffirmed their collective commitment to advancing the socio-economic development of the South-West. They also urged residents to remain peaceful, united and tolerant to sustain stability in the region.

The meeting, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, had in attendance: Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, and Governor Osun State, Ademola Adeleke was represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi.

The renewed push for state police comes amid increasing public demand for improved security architecture, including tighter border surveillance, enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated inter-state operations to protect lives and property.