State Governors Rally Support for Establishment of State Police

In a significant move aimed at addressing Nigeria’s escalating security challenges, sixteen state governors have submitted reports expressing their support for the establishment of state police to the National Economic Council (NEC).

These governors have also recommended constitutional amendments to pave the way for the creation of state police forces, signaling a growing consensus among states on the need for localized law enforcement.

The reports were presented at the 140th NEC meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, where discussions centered on enhancing national security measures. The endorsement of state police initiatives reflects a broader effort to decentralize policing and address the inadequacies of the centralized Nigerian Police Force.

According to Stanley Nkwocha, Special Adviser to the Vice President on Media and Communications, the NEC is still awaiting reports from 20 states, expressing confidence that additional states will lend their support to the initiative. The momentum behind the push for state police underscores the urgent need for innovative approaches to tackle Nigeria’s security crisis effectively.

The move towards establishing state police gained traction following a resolution by the Federal and state governments on February 16, 2024, to develop modalities for creating state police forces. This decision was prompted by the resurgence of abductions, attacks by suspected bandits, and other violent crimes across the country.

Recent incidents, including the abduction of over 280 pupils and teachers in Kaduna State and the killing of 17 Nigerian soldiers in Delta State, underscore the pressing need for comprehensive security reforms. These events have intensified calls for a multi-level policing system that empowers states to address security challenges within their jurisdictions effectively.

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The legislative process to enact state police received a boost with the successful passage of a bill proposing the creation of state police during the second reading at the House of Representatives. The bill, backed by 13 House members, garnered majority support in the Green Chamber, reflecting growing recognition of the urgency to overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture.

However, concerns about potential abuses of power and political interference remain significant challenges to the establishment of state police. Critics fear that decentralizing law enforcement could exacerbate regional tensions and undermine national unity if not carefully implemented.

As discussions continue at both the federal and state levels, stakeholders must prioritize transparency, accountability, and community engagement to build public trust in the proposed state police forces. By fostering collaboration between the federal and state governments, Nigeria can navigate the complexities of security governance and forge a path towards a safer and more secure future for all citizens.