Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party on Monday visited Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan following the recent school attacks and abduction cases in Oriire Local Government Area, calling for major changes to Nigeria’s security system to improve response to threats across the country.
The delegation included members of the party’s Board of Trustees led by Adolphus Wabara and members of the interim National Working Committee under Tanimu Turaki. The meeting with the governor was held behind closed doors at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan and focused on the security situation in the state.
Speaking after the meeting, Turaki said the visit was meant to sympathise with the government and people of Oyo State over the attacks that affected parts of Oriire and Ibadan. He said security remained one of the most important responsibilities of government and required urgent attention.
The visit followed the abduction of teachers and pupils during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident occurred on a Friday morning and raised concerns about the safety of schools and communities.
Turaki said the PDP leadership recognised the efforts already made by Governor Makinde in protecting residents and maintaining order in the state. He noted that the recent incident was worrying because it happened despite investments already made in security.
According to him, political activities ahead of future elections make it more necessary for governments to strengthen security measures and prevent further attacks. He said the delegation came to encourage the governor and reassure residents that the situation could be addressed through stronger action and cooperation.
The PDP leaders also urged Nigerians to remain alert and work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their communities. They said security should not be left to government agencies alone but should involve residents at the local level.
Turaki further called on the Federal Government to reviews and restructure the country’s security arrangement, arguing that the current system does not allow state governments to act quickly during emergencies. He said governors are often described as chief security officers in their states but lack direct control over security agencies.
He added that delays caused by seeking approvals from the centre can reduce response speed during crises and called for greater authority for states to manage security operations more effectively.