Trending 
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that the state is prepared for the implementation of state policing, noting that the necessary structures have already been established.
Aiyedatiwa said this on Friday during the June 12 Democracy Day celebration in Akure, the state capital.
The House of Representatives had on Thursday passed the constitutional amendment bill proposing the establishment of state police in response to increasing security challenges nationwide.
The governor said the foundation for state policing in Ondo was laid by his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and has since been strengthened by his administration.
According to him, Ondo state already has the required structure and personnel in place, with the major outstanding need being approval for additional weapons and equipment to enhance operational effectiveness.
He explained that while existing security outfits possess equipment permitted under current laws, more sophisticated tools would be required to enable them to carry out their responsibilities more effectively.
“For us in Ondo state, we’ve been ready for a long time. Even during the time of my late predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the structure had been built, which I’ve also further strengthened,” he said.
“We have the structure, we have the people and all that is left is the approval of needed weapons and equipment.
“Yes, we have some equipment already that the law permits. But we need to further fortify them with more sophisticated equipment that will make them more effective and functional in the charge of their duty,”he added.
Aiyedatiwa also described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, saying the 1993 presidential election remains a benchmark for credible elections, accountability and the rule of law.
He stressed that democracy is a continuous process that requires strong institutions and sustained commitment to democratic values.
The governor, however, warned that insecurity remains a major threat to democratic governance, noting that violence and instability undermine public participation and confidence in government.
He added that his administration has continued to implement measures to improve security across the state, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.
