Fix Oyo First!’ — Presidency Fires Back At Makinde Over Insecurity Claims

The Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, made the allegation in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, where he said the governor was attempting to shift responsibility for security challenges in Oyo State to the Federal Government.

He maintained that President Tinubu remains fully committed to addressing insecurity across the country and will not be distracted by political commentary.

Makinde had earlier criticised the Federal Government under President Tinubu, accusing it of delaying the establishment of state police in Nigeria. He also claimed that Lagos State did not support the formation of the Amotekun Corps, the regional security outfit for the South-West.

In its response, the Presidency dismissed the claim that Lagos State rejected Amotekun, insisting the allegation was false.

Olusegun further argued that while Lagos has reportedly made significant financial commitments to support security operations, Oyo State has struggled with funding its own Amotekun corps.

He suggested that if Makinde is unable to adequately finance a regional security structure, it would be difficult for him to manage the demands of a state police system.

The presidential aide therefore urged the governor to focus on addressing insecurity within Oyo State before commenting on national security matters.

Quoting Makinde’s remarks, Olusegun described them as a diversionary attempt, saying the governor’s criticisms were a way of avoiding accountability over rising insecurity in his state.

He also defended the Federal Government, stating that President Tinubu supports properly structured security reforms but believes they must follow legal and financial frameworks rather than political pressure.

Olusegun further claimed that Lagos State has actively supported security funding and operations, while accusing Oyo State of underfunding its Amotekun operatives, leaving them under-equipped in the fight against armed criminals.

He added that security reforms such as state policing require strong institutional backing, including funding, equipment, and proper structures, rather than public criticism.

The statement concluded by urging the Oyo State governor to strengthen security efforts in his state, insisting that “fixing Oyo” should come before national-level commentary.