Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, says no Nigerian president can solve the country’s security crisis alone, arguing that kidnapping has grown into a complex criminal enterprise supported by people beyond those carrying out the crimes.
Speaking on a television programme yesterday, Fayose said what started years ago as isolated cases has become a nationwide problem affecting many communities. He expressed sympathy for kidnapping victims and their families, describing the situation as disturbing.
According to him, insecurity has become deeply rooted and can only be tackled through joint efforts by governments, security agencies, communities, and citizens.
“This problem started quietly many years ago and has now taken over the fabric of our society. It has become a big business and, regrettably, a way of life for some people,” he said.
Fayose noted that several administrations have struggled with the challenge, which he said has been complicated by social, ethnic, and political factors. He added that kidnappers often depend on financiers, collaborators, and informants within society.
He said, “The society the president is trying to protect is also part of the problem. You cannot win a battle when some elements within the society are aiding criminality.”
Recalling his time as governor, Fayose pointed to measures such as banning open grazing and prosecuting criminal suspects. He stressed that strict law enforcement and punishment of offenders, regardless of ethnic or religious identity, remain key to fighting crime.
He also defended President Bola Tinubu, saying the president inherited major economic and security challenges and has shown determination in pursuing reforms despite ongoing hardship.
Fayose urged state and local authorities to share responsibility for security and criticised efforts to place the entire burden on the federal government. He also suggested some security incidents could be used for political purposes but later clarified that he was expressing a personal belief, not a proven claim. He called for thorough investigations and urged Nigerians to support efforts to tackle insecurity.
