Following a brutal church attack in Kwara State, a Nigerian citizen has identified those he believes should be held responsible.
On X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized that local governors, lawmakers, and other representatives bear responsibility. They must answer for the tragic event.
Demanding Local Accountability for the Kwara Incident
The user, Naijashimadun, asserted that blaming federal authorities in Abuja is misplaced. Local leadership should be held responsible.
He questioned why Kwara’s governor, state, and federal lawmakers escape accountability. People instead rush to Abuja for security demands. This bypasses local officials. Holding local leaders responsible is crucial for progress.
His post sparked diverse reactions. Netizens quickly debated responsibility for the state’s insecurity.
Public Discourse: Divided Opinions Emerge Online
Bello Sa’ad concurred, stating, ‘Governance begins locally. State leaders must be accountable for security failures. We cannot bypass them expecting federal solutions. Demand responsibility from local officials. Otherwise, cycles repeat. Local officials cannot hide behind the federal government.’
S-Badman criticized citizens for ignoring local leaders. He questioned why people approach the president with every problem. ‘Hold your governors accountable,’ he urged. ‘They should address issues with the president. Engage reachable community leaders. Do not be cowardly.’
Governor’s Authority: A Point of Contention
Conversely, some argued governors hold limited security control.
Semahdee stated, ‘Education is vital. A knowledgeable person understands the president commands all security. Governors lack real power. Until state and local police exist, only the president holds full accountability.’
Myka_veli also maintained that federal authorities bear primary responsibility. He asked, ‘Are governors and lawmakers in charge of state security? The president himself stated security responsibility rests with him. Why, then, are excuses made for them?’
A video documenting the attack is available.
About the Author
