‘Loss of innocent lives must stop’ — conference of speakers urges security agencies to be proactive

The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria has called for the overhaul of the country’s security architecture.

Speaking on Monday at the inaugural national policy on the legislative agenda of the house of representatives, Adebo Ogundoyin, chairman of the forum, said security agencies should be proactive rather than reactive in their approach to the insecurity challenges.

“Security remains a paramount concern for every Nigerian. It is not enough to merely condemn acts of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence each time they occur,” Ogundoyin said.

“As legislators, we must enact laws that support proactive, intelligence-driven security measures, strengthen the capacity of our security agencies, and promote community-based policing.

“To achieve this, we must overhaul our security architecture for greater professionalism, efficiency, and better service delivery.

“This includes recruiting and training more personnel, providing modern equipment, and adopting technology-driven approaches to combat emerging security threats.

“The recruitment of unemployed graduates into our security agencies should be a strategic, long-term investment in national security, not just a short-term response to unemployment.

“Our security forces must be proactive, technologically enabled, and deeply integrated into the communities they protect.

“They must serve as a preventive shield against terrorism and criminality, not just as a reactive force. Life is sacred, and the needless loss of innocent lives must end.”

Ogundoyin, who is also the speaker of the Oyo state house of assembly, said beyond security, the government must address the root causes of youth unemployment and economic despair, which are drivers of crime and instability.

“To deter our youth from engaging in criminal activities, we must create more meaningful economic opportunities,” he said.

Ogundoyin urged the national and state houses of assembly to collaborate on youth empowerment and skills acquisition, agricultural development and food security, digital economy and innovation, healthcare, and education.

He noted that the synergy between the national and state houses of assembly is paramount in translating legislative agendas into tangible outcomes for Nigerians.

“By recognising existing federal programmes in these areas and strategically aligning state-level initiatives, we can collectively address the pressing challenges facing our nation and pave the way for sustainable development and prosperity,” he said.

Ogundoyin added that lawmakers must rise above partisan interests and regional differences for national interest.