Expressing deep concern about the nation’s security challenges, both the Federal Government and state governors are contemplating the establishment of state police. This critical topic underwent thorough discussions during deliberations between President Bola Tinubu and state governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
Following the meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed journalists, emphasizing that the concept is in its early stages and will evolve further through additional discussions among stakeholders.
“There is also a discussion around the issue of state police. The Federal Government and the state governments are considering the possibility of setting up state police,” he stated.
“This is still to be further discussed. A lot of work has to be done in that direction. Both the Federal Government and the state governments agree on the importance of having state police. Now, this is a significant shift. But, as I said, more work needs to be done in that direction. Numerous meetings will have to occur between the Federal Government and the sub-nationals to determine the modalities of achieving this. Now, these are some of the issues that have been discussed.”
The call for state police has gained momentum amid escalating security challenges like kidnapping and banditry. Governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have reaffirmed their stance on state policing as a solution to the deteriorating security situation, cautioning that Nigeria is on the “verge of a situation akin to Venezuela“.
Various regional socio-political groups, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, and the Northern Elders’ Forum, consistently advocate for state police as a viable solution to the increasing security issues facing the nation.
Certain states have already taken steps to address security concerns by establishing their security outfits, such as Amotekun in the South-West and Ebube Agu in the South-East. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives has been hindered by the lack of support from the Federal Government or the Presidency. States are also advocating for these security outfits to be granted licenses to carry assault rifles like AK-47 to effectively counter armed assailants.
