Cleric proffers multi-pronged solutions to Nigeria’s insecurity

The Emeritus Supreme Head of the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Unification Church Worldwide, Dr. Adegboyega Solomon Alao, has outlined far-reaching measures he believes Nigeria must adopt to overcome the persistent insecurity confronting the nation.

Dr. Alao said addressing the country’s security challenges requires urgent structural reforms, particularly the establishment of state and local government police formations. According to him, decentralising policing would help curb the influx of unknown and undetected elements into communities and enhance intelligence gathering at the grassroots.

The cleric spoke in Ibadan during a press conference organised to herald the 96th Annual General Conference of the church. He argued that appointing Commissioners of Police and Divisional Police Officers who are indigenes of their respective states would strengthen accountability and commitment to community safety.

“Indigenes will be more conscious of the security of their towns and less likely to compromise the safety of their people,” he said.

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Dr. Alao also called for the strict enforcement of existing anti-open grazing laws across the country, stressing that this would protect farmers, boost agricultural productivity, enhance food security and prevent the looming threat of famine.

In addition, the cleric urged the nation to eliminate godfatherism in politics, which he described as a major obstacle to good governance and effective leadership. He further advocated the restructuring of the federation, proposing that the current six geopolitical zones be converted into states, while the existing states should function as provinces, in order to significantly reduce the cost of governance.

He also recommended reforms in the legislative system, including a reduction in the cost of maintaining a bicameral legislature. According to him, each state should have a reduced and equal number of representatives, regardless of geographical size, while more powers should be devolved to the states to address the unhealthy struggle for control at the centre.

Dr. Alao warned that unless urgent and decisive steps are taken to tackle insecurity, the country’s worsening security situation could result in grave consequences for national unity, economic stability and the well-being of citizens.