By Desmond Ogbonmwan
Nigeria has moved a step closer to establishing state police forces after lawmakers advanced a constitutional amendment designed to allow individual states to create and manage their own police services alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force.
The proposed reform, which has generated debate for years, is aimed at strengthening security across the country as authorities battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal violence, and other criminal activities affecting different regions.
The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the constitutional bill on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the push for decentralised policing. The Senate is also expected to consider and adopt the proposal as momentum builds behind the reform.
If eventually signed into law, the amendment would grant Nigeria’s 36 states the power to establish and operate their own police forces while maintaining the federal police structure.
Why State Police Is Being Considered
For decades, policing in Nigeria has remained centrally controlled from Abuja despite varying security challenges across different parts of the country.
While the North-East continues to battle insurgency, states in the North-West and North-Central regions face persistent attacks by bandits and kidnappers. The South-East has witnessed separatist-linked violence, while oil theft and pipeline vandalism remain major concerns in the Niger Delta.
Supporters of state policing argue that local authorities are better positioned to understand security threats within their communities and respond more quickly to emergencies.
Many state governors have repeatedly complained that although residents hold them responsible for security failures, they lack direct authority over police operations in their states.
Tinubu Backs Reform
President Bola Tinubu has previously expressed support for the creation of state police as part of broader efforts to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
The renewed push comes amid increasing concerns over mass kidnappings and attacks on schools, communities, and travellers in different parts of the country.
Recent abductions involving students and teachers in Oyo and Borno states have further intensified calls for stronger local security structures.
Concerns Remain
Despite widespread support, critics have warned that state police could be abused by governors to target political opponents, suppress dissent, or intimidate minority groups.
Questions have also been raised about funding, training standards, accountability, and coordination between state and federal security agencies.
Analysts have noted that while wealthier states may be able to sustain effective police forces, financially struggling states could face challenges maintaining operational capacity.
What Happens Next?
Before the constitutional amendment can take effect, it must secure approval from at least two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 state Houses of Assembly.
If the required support is obtained, Nigeria could witness one of the most significant security reforms since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
The development is expected to remain a major topic of political and security debate in the months ahead as lawmakers, governors, security experts, and citizens weigh the benefits and risks of decentralised policing.
Author:
Desmond Ogbonmwan
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