Lawyer Pushes Cross River Model For Security

Leonard Anyogo, lawyer and Director-General of Good Governance Advocacy International, is urging federal and state governments to adopt the Cross River model security governance approach, arguing that people-centered policies and social investment do more to fight insecurity than force alone.

Anyogo made the remarks speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a recent Security Summit in Calabar, jointly organized by the Department of State Services and the Cross River State Government under the theme "Unite Against Terror."

The summit itself followed a citywide security sensitization campaign launched by Governor Bassey Otu ahead of the event, built around getting residents to actively support intelligence gathering rather than leaving security entirely to the authorities.

Anyogo pointed to Cross River's own experience as proof that his approach works. He recalled that the state once faced serious security challenges of its own, but says the situation has improved significantly through proactive strategies, better coordination among security agencies, and stronger community involvement.

"The panacea to insecurity is good governance. Governance should be proactive. When the rights and privileges of citizens are protected, security will naturally be ensured," he said.

He described the Calabar summit as a timely step that could strengthen the broader national fight against crime and insecurity.

A recurring theme in Anyogo's remarks was the need for security agencies to work with each other rather than against each other. He argued that lasting peace depends on law enforcement bodies genuinely collaborating instead of operating in silos.

He also stressed that public trust is central to any real progress, urging governments to involve communities directly in how security policies are carried out.

Key points from his position:

• Citizens are more likely to share useful information when they trust the system
• Security agencies must coordinate rather than compete for jurisdiction
• Governance that prioritizes citizen welfare naturally reduces insecurity over time

Anyogo maintained that inclusive governance remains the foundation of long-term peace, stability, and national prosperity, and called on governments at every level to prioritize policies that directly improve people's everyday lives.