The Southern Governors’ Forum has renewed calls for the establishment of state policing to coordinate the security architecture of the southern region and tackle the rising cases of insecurity.

The governors reached the resolution at a meeting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Wednesday.

The meeting, which centred on the country’s security architecture, had in attendance the 17 state governors of the southern region, including the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, who will be in attendance shortly after the southern governors’ ongoing meeting.

Speaking against the backdrop of rising insecurity and coordinated attacks in some states, the chairman Southern Governors’ Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, disclosed that the creation of State Police remains a non-negotiable component of the collective demand for true federalism and effective grassroots security.

Abiodun stated that the region has consistently advocated for a policing system that is closer to the people, more responsive to local realities, and better equipped to address the rapidly evolving threats we face.

He added that the speed at which insecurity spreads shows that geographical location is no longer a guarantee of safety, stating that with dense populations, major industrial corridors, seaports, airports, and strategic highways, the Southern region faces unique exposure to security risks.
“This meeting goes beyond geographical proximity; it is a union defined by shared aspirations, common challenges, and a collective determination to build a future of stability and prosperity for our people. Our convergence today reflects the same spirit of unity and cooperation that guided our forefathers in the old Southern Protectorate long before the amalgamation of 1914,” he said.

Governor Abiodun noted that the recent incidents across the country reinforce the urgency of decentralising policing so that states can take direct responsibility for safeguarding their citizens.

He said, “A unified Southern position on State Police will not only enhance intelligence gathering and early-warning capabilities but also strengthen our ability to secure schools, farmlands, border communities, and critical infrastructure across our states.”

He commended President Tinubu for his efforts in nation-building and for his shared vision in transforming the country.

He pointed out that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led the federal government has implemented far-reaching socio-economic reforms that are already yielding visible and measurable dividends.

Among those in attendance are Gov Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Alex Otti of Abia, Biodun Oyebamiji of Ekiti, Gov Francis Nwifiru of Ebonyi, Peter Mbah of Enugu, Gov Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Gov Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State.

The deputy governors at the meeting include Kola Adewusi of Osun State, Bayo Lawal of Oyo, Peter Odey of Cross River State, and Dennis Idahosa of Edo State.