In a recent development addressing the escalating insecurity crisis in Nigeria, sixteen state governors have officially thrown their weight behind the establishment of state police forces. This groundbreaking move was unveiled by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, following the 140th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held virtually. Bagudu, during a press briefing, highlighted the governors’ unified stance and their urgent call for a constitutional review to bolster security measures.
Although specific governor names were not disclosed, Bagudu confirmed that out of the 36 states, 20 governors and the FCT are yet to present their recommendations. The endorsed proposal also includes a plea for revisiting the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to address Nigeria’s deepening security challenges.
Simultaneously, the NEC received a concise summary from the ad-hoc committee on Crude Oil Theft Prevention and Control. Chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, the committee identified critical areas of oil leakages within the industry and highlighted regulatory shortcomings. Governor Uzodinma stressed the necessity for political resolve to enact meaningful changes and systemic reforms.
The clamor for state police has been resounding as Nigeria grapples with escalating security threats like kidnapping and banditry. Notably, governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reaffirmed their stance on state policing on February 12, citing it as the pivotal solution to Nigeria’s deteriorating security landscape. They expressed concerns that without decisive action, Nigeria could face a fate similar to Venezuela’s turmoil.
Various regional socio-political groups, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, and the Northern Elders’ Forum, have echoed the call for state police as a viable remedy to the country’s escalating security challenges.
Despite some states launching local security outfits like Amotekun in the South-West and Ebube Agu in the South-East, alongside the Benue Guards in the North Central, their effectiveness remains hampered by the lack of federal support. Calls persist for these outfits to be granted the authority to bear assault rifles like AK-47s to effectively counter armed criminal elements.
