In a recent address to a gathering of 146 traditional rulers in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu kingdom, voiced his stance against the implementation of state police in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for a focus on strengthening the nation’s democracy rather than decentralizing policing systems, particularly amidst ongoing calls for the establishment of state police forces.
Oba Akinyemi expressed concerns regarding the potential misuse of state police forces by governors for political agendas, highlighting the importance of transparency, equity, accountability, and zero corruption in law enforcement. He underscored the necessity of adequate funding, insurance, and reforms for the existing police infrastructure before considering decentralization.
Furthermore, the monarch urged President Bola Tinubu to engage in dialogue with proponents of the Yoruba nation, refraining from treating them as common criminals. He advocated for a peaceful resolution through roundtable discussions rather than resorting to forceful measures.
The monarch’s remarks come amid ongoing debates surrounding the restructuring of Nigeria’s security architecture and the management of regional grievances, particularly in the South-West region where calls for self-determination have gained momentum.
As the nation continues to grapple with security challenges and political tensions, Oba Akinyemi’s perspectives add to the discourse on the optimal approach to addressing the complex issues facing Nigeria.
