By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo
A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara, Mr Femi Sanni, has condemned bandits’ attack on Isapa community in Ekiti Local Government Area, Kwara.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to newsmen in Ilorin, Sanni described the attack as a painful reminder of the need to overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture.
He expressed sympathy with the families affected by the attack on Sunday, noting that recurring violence in vulnerable communities was unacceptable.
The governorship aspirant said that no community in Kwara should live under constant threat, stressing that the protection of lives and property remained the primary responsibility of government at all levels.
While acknowledging that insecurity was a global challenge, Sanni said that Nigeria must adopt localised, proactive and people-driven solutions to effectively tackle the menace.
He warned that persistent attacks on rural communities underscored the limitations of the current centralised policing structure.
The APC governorship aspirant called on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to fast-track the legal and constitutional framework for the establishment of state police, describing it as critical and long-overdue.
According to him, empowering states with policing authority would enhance intelligence gathering, response time and accountability.
He also urged security agencies to intensify intelligence-driven operations in vulnerable areas and strengthen collaboration with local vigilante groups, often first responders in rural communities.
Sanni said that such partnerships would help bridge security gaps and restore public confidence.
He joined other Nigerians in congratulating the Nigeria Police Force on the 2026 National Police Day, and commended the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and officers of the Police Force for their dedication to maintaining law and order.
The APC governorship aspirant described the theme, “Community Partnership: Building Trust,” as timely and essential for sustainable security.
He said that effective policing must be anchored on trust, professionalism and respect for human rights.
According to him, ongoing reforms under the current police leadership reflected commitment to accountability and improved service delivery.
He said that security required collective effort, urging citizens, the private sector and political leaders to contribute to building safer communities.
Sanni also called on the Federal Government to improve welfare packages for serving and retired police personnel, noting that a motivated and well-equipped police force was vital to national stability and development.
He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and people-centred leadership, pledging to continue advocating practical solutions to security challenges in Kwara and Nigeria.(NAN)