Former Deputy Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS) and former Chairman of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps, Brigadier-General Kunle Togun (retd.), has criticized governors in the South-West region over what he described as inadequate attention to security challenges facing the area.

Speaking during a recent interview, Togun alleged that many governors in the region have failed to act on security assessments and recommendations provided by experts despite growing concerns over kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities.

The retired military officer stated that security threats in parts of the South-West had been anticipated years ago and that several reports containing analyses and recommendations were submitted to relevant authorities. According to him, insufficient implementation of these recommendations has contributed to the worsening security situation in some communities.

By Peace Erewunmi

Togun argued that security requires proactive planning, intelligence gathering, and sustained collaboration between government authorities, local communities, and security agencies. He maintained that state governments should place greater emphasis on preventive measures rather than reacting after incidents occur.

The former intelligence officer also expressed concern over attacks, kidnappings, and criminal activities reported in parts of the region, calling for improved surveillance, technology-driven security operations, and stronger support for local security initiatives.

He further emphasized the importance of effective coordination among security agencies and urged political leaders to treat security as a priority issue affecting economic growth, agriculture, and public safety.

Togun’s remarks have generated debate among political observers and stakeholders, with some agreeing that regional leaders should intensify efforts to tackle insecurity, while others argue that state governments face limitations due to constitutional restrictions on security administration.

As of the time of filing this report, no collective response had been issued by the South-West Governors’ Forum regarding the comments made by the retired military officer.