Offa: The Offa Security Committee in Kwara has urged for the direct allocation of security votes to local governments, highlighting how the existing structure has strained communities amidst escalating security threats. This appeal was made by retired Air Vice Marshal Abdul-Ganiyu Olabisi in a telephone conversation with the News Agency of Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Olabisi emphasized that several communities have experienced severe attacks recently, leading to loss of lives and displacement of residents. These situations have pressured local residents to resort to self-help, despite their efforts to assist security agencies. The lack of government funding remains a significant obstacle, he noted.
Olabisi explained that as immediate responders to security breaches, communities have a crucial role in maintaining security. However, sustaining this role is challenging without government support. He revealed that the Offa community has set up a vigilance group to aid security agencies through intelligence gathering and patrols, funded entirely by contributions from individuals. This initiative covers expenses such as salaries, vehicles, motorcycles, and other logistics, costing the community over N10 million monthly without any government aid.
He urged the government to allocate security funds directly to local governments to bolster community-based security measures. Such a move would enhance transparency and accountability, while improving the communities’ ability to respond to threats. Olabisi argued that channeling security votes directly to local governments would boost grassroots security and ensure prompt incident responses.
Olabisi also expressed concerns about the slow progress in establishing state police, which, although commendable, might take years to implement fully. He advocated for immediate financial empowerment of communities to strengthen their defense and deter criminal elements from exploiting vulnerable areas. He concluded that immediate intervention through direct funding is essential to equip and organize communities better, thereby reducing the ease with which attackers operate.