The North Central states of Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have advocated for the establishment of the state police.
Led by the governors of Plateau and Benue states, Simon Mufwang, Hyacinth Alia (who was represented by his Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General and Public Order, Chief Fidelis Bemseen Mnyim Esq), the region presented their position during the constitutional review of the 1999 Constitution as amended.
The event, which was organised by the House of Representatives Committee on the 1999 Constitution as amended, was held in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
While making their demands on behalf of Benue State Government, Mnyim advocated for the creation of state police to enable fight insecurity in affected communities in the twenty-three LGAs of the state.
Similarly, the North Central state governors jointly advocated for the establishment of state police to ease challenges of insecurity in their domains.
Mnyim asserted that this initiative is essential and was highlighted during President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the state.
“It is critical for effective tackling of security challenges faced by our state,” he said.
He declared that such moves on the other hand would significantly enhance the enforcement of the Open Grazing and Ranches Prohibition Law.
“I’m optimistic that this proposal will go alongside empowering local authorities to respond decisively to community security among the inhabitants,” he stated.
He pointed out the inherent limitations placed on state governors, who serve as the chief security officers, but often lack the necessary authority to engage security agencies swiftly, and ensure the safety of their jurisdictions.
Also, Mnyim advocated the urgent need for electoral reforms to fortify Nigeria’s democracy.
He stressed that many issues surrounding pre-election and post-election disputes arise from the existing constitutional framework, which complicates the fair administration of justice in electoral petitions.