A statement by APC chieftain and political analyst Obafemi George has triggered a nationwide conversation about who is actually responsible for keeping Nigerians safe. During a high-profile interview on Inspiration 92.3FM, George ignited a constitutional firestorm by asserting that the security of citizens is not the primary job of the President.
This remark has been widely circulated as a direct challenge to the “Buck Stops Here” mindset that usually defines the Nigerian presidency. However, George’s argument stems from a controversial interpretation of federalism.
The Argument of Tiers:
George claims that while the President oversees the Armed Forces, day-to-day community safety is a shared duty. He contends that State Governors, despite being the Chief Security Officers of their states, have abdicated their duties. In his view, local leaders often blame the Federal Government for breaches that should be managed at the state or local level.
The Constitutional Counter-Argument:
Critics view this as a deflection intended to shield the current administration from accountability. Legal experts have countered by citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution. This section states that the “security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” Because the President leads the federal government and controls the Police and Military, the public consensus remains that the ultimate responsibility rests with him.
Whether this was a push for State Police or a political move to lower expectations, the debate reveals a fractured system. If the President is not responsible and Governors lack control over the police, the average citizen is left in a dangerous “Security No-Man’s-Land”—a reality that no amount of political interpretation can hide.
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