Former Labour Party presidential candidate, , has criticised President over the approval of the recruitment of about 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State, describing the decision as a reflection of poor leadership and a reactive approach to tackling insecurity.
Obi made the remarks in a statement issued on Friday, where he expressed concerns over what he described as the Federal Government’s tendency to respond to security challenges only after tragic incidents have occurred.
The criticism follows the recent approval by President Tinubu for the recruitment of approximately 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State, a move announced in the wake of the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The initiative is aimed at strengthening security surveillance in forests and rural communities often targeted by criminal elements.
Reacting to the development, Obi argued that while enhancing security personnel is necessary, the decision raises questions about the government’s overall security strategy and its commitment to addressing insecurity across the country.
According to him, if the recruitment of forest guards is considered an effective solution, the Federal Government should explain whether similar measures will be implemented in other states facing comparable security threats.
The approval appears reactive rather than strategic,” Obi stated, noting that insecurity remains a nationwide challenge affecting several states across the federation.
The former Anambra governor further questioned how the newly proposed forest guards would operate alongside existing regional security outfits such as the South-West Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun Corps. He called for clarity on the roles and coordination mechanisms between the various security structures.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s security crisis cannot be solved through isolated interventions alone. He stressed the need for a comprehensive national security framework that addresses the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment, poverty, weak governance, and economic hardship.
He urged the Federal Government to adopt a holistic approach that combines intelligence gathering, economic development, job creation, and community engagement to effectively combat criminality and violence across the country.
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