‘Fire the IGP’, Says Ex- Ambassador Keshi, Blasts Tinubu Over Security Failures in Benue

“Former Ambassador Joe Keshi criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s handling of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis in Benue and Plateau States, urging decisive leadership and calling for the dismissal of the Inspector-General of Police over continued failures.”

Former Nigerian Ambassador and ex-Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Joe Keshi, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s handling of the persistent security crisis, particularly in Benue and Plateau States, stressing that the situation demands “firm and decisive leadership.”

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Keshi expressed disappointment over the federal government’s failure to hold security chiefs accountable despite the continuous killings and attacks in several parts of the country.

Recalling one of the violent incidents, the veteran diplomat referenced President Tinubu’s visit to an affected community where he questioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) about the lack of arrests.

“Was it in Benue or Plateau where scores were killed? President Tinubu, under pressure, went there and asked the IGP why no arrests were made. I remember saying on television that if I were in his position, I wouldn’t ask that question — I would fire the IGP,” Keshi stated.

Keshi lamented what he described as recurring lapses in Nigeria’s security management, arguing that they expose deep flaws in the country’s system of accountability. He stressed that the president must demonstrate leadership by ensuring that security chiefs face real consequences when they fail to protect lives and property.

According to him, the “recurring cycle of violence” across Nigeria is fueled by the absence of proactive strategies and weak enforcement of responsibility among top officials. He therefore urged President Tinubu to undertake urgent reforms within the police and other security agencies to restore credibility, efficiency, and public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.