The recent passage of the State Police bill by the House of Representatives has reignited national debate over the future of policing and security in Nigeria. While proponents believe decentralising the police will enable states to tackle insecurity more effectively through local intelligence and quicker responses, critics warn that state-controlled police forces could be vulnerable to political interference and abuse by state governments.
Samuel Borisade of WEEKEND HOPE spoke with some individuals on the topic.
Excerpts:
Ayoade Adeoye
As far as Nigerian politicians are concerned, this appears to be yet another political tool that may further aggravate the already fragile security situation in the country. Instead of addressing the root causes of insecurity through effective governance, adequate funding of security agencies and genuine policy implementation, such measures often become instruments for political advantage. If not properly managed, it could deepen public distrust and create more challenges than solutions.
The police can help tackle insecurity in Nigeria, but it has to start with the government. Security personnel are often not paid their salaries in time, and in some cases do not receive their full entitlements. This affects morale and reduces their effectiveness in carrying out their duties.
The police are meant to protect lives and property, not to be used as political tools. If they are properly supported, adequately funded and allowed to operate professionally, they can play a major role in reducing insecurity and restoring public confidence.
Although state police may not provide complete solution to Nigeria’s insecurity challenges, it can go a long way in reducing crime and improving security at the grassroots level. The federal police can continue to handle national security matters, while each state maintains its own police force to address local issues more effectively.
If a state police force is poorly funded or performs below expectations, the responsibility will largely rest with the state government rather than the federal government. I believe governors would be motivated to ensure their state police perform well, especially when compared to other states making progress in security and development.
Personally, I believe insecurity in Nigeria has gone beyond what state police alone can handle. Many criminals operate from forests and remote communities, making it difficult for conventional security agencies to effectively track and apprehend them.
The government should officially empower and support local hunters and community security outfits, as they understand the terrain better than anyone else. At the same time, state police should focus on identifying and prosecuting the sponsors and financiers behind these criminal groups. In addition, both the federal and state governments must adequately equip security personnel with the necessary training, technology, and resources needed to effectively combat insecurity.
In my own opinion the establishment of state police can help address insecurity in Nigeria because security challenges are often local in nature. Officers who understand the terrain, language, and culture of their communities can gather intelligence more effectively and respond faster to threats than a centrally controlled force.
However, there are legitimate concerns that state police could be abused for political purpose if adequate safeguards are not put in place. To prevent this, there must be strong legal frameworks, independent oversight and clear operational standards. While state police may improve security, lasting solutions will also require police reforms, economic development and efforts to address the root causes of insecurity.
The biggest advantage of state police is that security is local. Officers who understand the language, terrainand communities they serve can gather intelligence more effectively and respond faster to security threats than a centralised force operating from afar. Given the growing security challenges across the country, state policing could complement the existing system and improve public safety.
However, Nigeria’s political culture raises legitimate concerns about possible abuse. Without strong checks and balances, state police could be used by some governors to target political opponents or influence elections. Therefore, while state police has the potential to improve security, its success will depend on transparent oversight, accountability and safeguards against political interference.
We already have security institutions in place; what they need are adequate resources, modern technology and the necessary equipment to effectively combat insecurity. The government and citizens must also give them the support they need to perform their duties efficiently.
While state police could have a positive impact on security, I believe our priority should be strengthening the existing security agencies. By providing better tools, improved welfare and regular training, we can boost their morale and enhance their capacity to tackle insecurity across the country.