By Milcah Tanimu

On the 22nd of March 2024, sixteen state governors have expressed their support for the establishment of state police by submitting reports to the National Economic Council. Led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the 140th NEC meeting at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, received these recommendations along with suggestions for constitutional amendments to facilitate the creation of state police units.

Stanley Nkwocha, the Special Adviser to the Vice President on Media and Communications, announced the submission of these reports in a statement titled ‘NEC endorses take-off of $617M i-DICE programme across states’. While the NEC awaits reports from 20 other states, it remains confident of broader support for the initiative.

Established under the provisions of the constitution, the National Economic Council comprises state governors, the Governor of the Central Bank, and other government officials. Meeting monthly to advise the President on economic matters, NEC deliberated on the necessity of state policing during its recent session.

According to Nkwocha, discussions at the NEC meeting included presentations on the state policing initiative, with 16 states already submitting reports advocating for its establishment. The remaining 20 states are expected to contribute to the discourse in subsequent sessions.

The push for state police comes amidst escalating security challenges across the nation, marked by recurring incidents of abduction, banditry, and violent crimes. Recent tragedies include the abduction of over 280 pupils and teachers in Kaduna, Sokoto, and Borno states, along with attacks on internally displaced persons and fatal clashes between communities and security forces.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, both federal and state governments have engaged in dialogue to address security concerns. Discussions have included plans to recruit forest rangers and enhance training to safeguard borders and forests, alongside constitutional amendments to facilitate the establishment of state police.

A bill proposing the creation of state police has already passed the second reading at the House of Representatives, signaling growing legislative support for the initiative. However, concerns remain regarding the potential abuse of power and its impact on national unity.

While President Bola Tinubu has endorsed the creation of state police and forest guards, the success of these initiatives ultimately hinges on the collaboration between federal and state authorities. Moreover, efforts to reopen the Nigeria-Niger border aim to curb the illegal influx of arms, which exacerbate security challenges in the region.

In conclusion, the advocacy for state police reflects a broader conversation on security reform in Nigeria, balancing the need for localized law enforcement with concerns over accountability and national cohesion.