Presidency Blames Governors Over Rising Insecurity

The Presidency has accused state governors of mishandling security funds and failing to adequately support federal security agencies amid rising violence across Nigeria.

Presidential Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, made the statement in a television interview on Monday, April 21, following public outcry over attacks in Plateau, Benue, Enugu, and other states.

ALSO READ: Police Did Nothing, We Paid Ransom For Our Monarch’s Release- Edo Lawmaker

Bwala criticised governors for allocating minimal monthly funds around N20m each to the police, army, and DSS, despite receiving security votes of up to N3bn.

He argued that better use of existing structures, not necessarily the creation of state police, would improve security. Bwala stressed that Governors have constitutional power to support and equip federal forces and establish local vigilante groups. He urged governors to invest in surveillance technology and frontline infrastructure.

He dismissed claims by some governors that they lack the authority to act on security matters.

While not opposing state police, Bwala warned it would be costly and difficult to sustain without proper funding.