Federal Government and State Governors Mull Establishment of State Police Amidst Rising Security Concerns"

Federal Government and State Governors Mull Establishment of State Police Amidst Rising Security Concerns

In response to the escalating security challenges plaguing Nigeria, discussions have intensified between the Federal Government and state governors regarding the implementation of state police forces. This critical development emerged during deliberations led by President Bola Tinubu and attended by state governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

During a press briefing following the meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, underscored the gravity of the security situation and emphasized the imperative of exploring the establishment of state police as a potential solution. He elucidated that while the proposition is still in its preliminary stages, there is a mutual acknowledgment between the Federal Government and state administrations regarding the necessity of localizing law enforcement efforts.

Idris stated, "Now, there is also a discussion around the issue of state police. The Federal Government and the state governments are mulling the possibility of setting up state police. Of course, this is still going to be further discussed. A lot of work has to be done in that direction."

The proposal for state police comes in the wake of persistent calls from various quarters, including governors affiliated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and prominent regional socio-political groups such as Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, and the Northern Elders’ Forum. These voices have echoed the urgent need for decentralized security mechanisms to effectively combat the surge in criminal activities, notably kidnapping and banditry, which have plagued the nation.

Notably, some states have already taken proactive measures by establishing their own security outfits, such as the Amotekun in the South-West, Ebube Agu in the South-East, and the Benue Guards in the North Central region. However, the efficacy of these initiatives has been hampered by the absence of federal support and authorization to equip these agencies adequately.

Despite the emergence of localized security initiatives, concerns persist regarding their operational capacity and legal framework. State governments have advocated for the empowerment of these security outfits with the authority to bear assault rifles, mirroring the capabilities of federal law enforcement agencies, to effectively counter armed criminal elements.

As discussions progress, stakeholders anticipate further engagements between the Federal Government and state authorities to delineate the modalities for implementing state police structures. The outcome of these deliberations is poised to shape the trajectory of Nigeria's security landscape, as the nation grapples with the imperative of safeguarding its citizens and restoring law and order.

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