Presidential hopeful Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to approve the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State, arguing that the move reflects a reactive approach to tackling insecurity rather than a comprehensive national strategy.
Obi made the remarks in a statement shared on his social media platform on Friday, where he examined the country’s security challenges and the need for long-term solutions.
The former Anambra State governor questioned the rationale behind approving additional security personnel for a single state following recent kidnappings of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to him, while strengthening security structures is necessary, such measures should be part of a carefully planned nationwide policy rather than an emergency response to isolated incidents.
Obi argued that many states across the country are facing serious security threats, including kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and violent attacks on communities. He listed Oyo, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Borno, Katsina, Anambra, Niger, Imo and Sokoto among states experiencing severe security concerns.
He also questioned whether the Federal Government intended to extend similar recruitment approvals to all states and the Federal Capital Territory, noting that such a decision would significantly increase the number of personnel required nationwide.
The former governor further raised concerns about the relationship between the proposed forest guards and existing regional security outfits, particularly the South-West security network known as Amotekun.
Obi maintained that insecurity in Nigeria cannot be solved through isolated actions. He said the crisis is linked to broader governance challenges, including unemployment, economic hardship, weak institutions and inadequate leadership.
He argued that addressing insecurity requires a holistic strategy that combines security operations with economic development, job creation, national unity and improved management of the country’s resources.
According to him, sustainable peace can only be achieved when government policies address the root causes of crime and social unrest rather than focusing solely on immediate reactions after major incidents.
President Tinubu approved the recruitment of the forest guards following growing concerns over insecurity in Oyo State, particularly after the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of the state.
The development has generated debate among political leaders, security experts and members of the public on the best approach to tackling Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
As discussions continue, many stakeholders are calling for stronger coordination between federal and state authorities, improved intelligence gathering and long-term reforms aimed at securing communities across the country.
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