A Professor of Public Administration at Lagos State University (LASU), Olufemi Fatile, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts in addressing insecurity, describing it as a worrisome challenge that has persisted across the country.
Fatile made the call while delivering the 104th edition of LASU’s inaugural lecture series at the university’s main campus in Ojo, Lagos, on Tuesday. The lecture was titled “Nigeria and the Killer Squad: Corruption, Insecurity, and Restructuring Brouhaha – Why These Problems Persist”.
He highlighted how insecurity has rendered some parts of the country unsafe, citing militia activities in the South, insurgency in the North, kidnappings in the East and South, ritual killings in the East and West, and politically motivated assassinations nationwide.
“The regional pattern of these security threats has led to the formation of regional security outfits in the country to curb the alarming rate of insecurity,” he said. “Insecurity is like a sore that, if not treated, gradually spreads, making it difficult to manage and costing the government a lot of money.”
Fatile noted that insecurity, once considered a minor concern in Nigeria’s social issues, has now escalated, increasing crime rates, banditry, and terrorist attacks, which have had severe consequences on national cohesion and sustainable development.
On restructuring, he observed that the colonial era laid the foundation for disaffection and political instability, which persist today. He described Nigeria’s federal system as “centralised federalism,” where excessive power is concentrated at the center, leading to contradictions and crises.
“There have been persistent calls for restructuring since Nigeria’s independence in 1960 due to frustrations over inequality, injustice, and prejudice in governance,” he said. “Restructuring arguments are based on ethno-regional self-determination and sub-national development, both aimed at fostering local development and patriotism.”
While acknowledging that insecurity and restructuring challenges cannot be completely resolved, Fatile stressed that they can be managed and mitigated. He urged the government to prioritize security reforms by addressing personnel shortages, capacity gaps, inadequate weapons, and officers’ welfare.
He further emphasized the need for value reorientation among leaders and citizens, stating that tackling corruption and insecurity requires a shift in thought and behavior.
The lecture was attended by LASU’s Vice Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, university management, staff, and students.