The push for state police in Nigeria received significant support over the weekend from major socio-cultural organizations, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze, and Arewa youths. This development adds momentum to the ongoing debate about decentralizing law enforcement in the country.

For decades, discussions on the necessity of state police have been tempered by fears of politicization by state governors. During a meeting on February 15, 2024, President Bola Tinubu and state governors extensively discussed the potential creation of state police, eliciting mixed reactions from stakeholders.

While supporters argue that the centralized Nigeria Police is overstretched and ill-equipped to manage security for over 230 million people across diverse terrains, critics caution that governors may misuse local police for political ends. The State Police Constitution Alteration Bill, currently before the Senate and House of Representatives, is among 44 harmonized bills awaiting consideration and voting.

Afenifere Supports State Police, Calls for Tougher Anti-Terror Measures

Comrade Jare Ajayi, National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, stated that Nigeria is ready for state police, emphasizing that governors need control over security apparatus to effectively discharge their responsibilities. He recommended clauses in the law to prevent abuse or politicization of local police.

Ajayi also urged the Federal Government to identify and prosecute financiers of terrorism, noting that banditry and violent insurgency are often sustained by individuals in positions of power and influence. He supported capital punishment for proven perpetrators, stressing the severity of losses suffered by victims of terrorism and banditry.

Ohanaeze Voices Concerns Over Political Abuse

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, acknowledged the necessity of state police due to rising insecurity but warned that some Northern governors could exploit local police to influence the 2027 elections. He called for substantive police reforms and vigilant oversight from the National Assembly to prevent electoral manipulation.

Arewa Youths Advocate Localized Policing With Oversight

Alhaji Shettima Yerima, President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), stressed that state police would allow for tailored security responses in regions facing insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts. He highlighted that local officers’ familiarity with community dynamics would enhance trust, cooperation, and effectiveness in policing.

Yerima cited international examples such as the United States, Canada, and Germany, where regional policing models have successfully addressed local security challenges. He recommended establishing a robust accountability and oversight framework, including an independent body to monitor operations and enforce adherence to legal and democratic principles.

He concluded that state police, if properly regulated, could strengthen security, promote regional empowerment, and ensure that law enforcement serves the interests of justice rather than political ambition.