Joe Igbokwe, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has strongly criticized the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, following the governor’s recent appeal to the United Nations (UN) regarding local security issues.
The Controversy Over Governor Makinde’s UN Appeal
The political friction began after Governor Makinde publicly called on the United Nations to launch an independent investigation into the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. Makinde made this request shortly after the military successfully rescued and handed over the victims to his administration.
According to the governor, the circumstances surrounding the abduction raise critical questions that domestic security institutions might not be fully equipped or prepared to address, hence his demand for external, independent oversight.
Igbokwe Labels Makinde’s Actions as ‘Reckless’
Responding to the governor’s stance, Joe Igbokwe expressed deep disappointment, stating that Governor Makinde’s comments have diminished his standing and embarrassed both his office and the state he governs.
In a statement shared on his official social media platform, the APC chieftain questioned the governor’s judgment, writing: “Come ooooo, is Governor Seyi Makinde the only wise man in Nigeria? The way he is wired worries me to the marrows.”
Igbokwe did not hold back his criticism, describing the governor’s appeal to an international body as an inappropriate move. “He has embarrassed himself, his state, his image, his status, office etc. This is reckless, a ruse and totally uncalled for,” Igbokwe added.
The Broader Implications of the Security Debate
The verbal clash highlights ongoing political divisions regarding the management of Nigeria’s internal security. While some stakeholders argue that international assistance is vital to resolving persistent security challenges, others view appeals to organizations like the UN as an unnecessary indictment of Nigeria’s sovereign law enforcement agencies.