The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the establishment of state police, describing the recent progress on the State Police Bill as a major step toward addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges. The group, however, stressed that the legislative process must be completed without delay, urging state governors and lawmakers across the country to expedite actions needed to bring the reform into full effect.
According to Afenifere, the push for state police has become increasingly necessary due to the persistent insecurity affecting many parts of the country, including banditry, kidnappings, communal conflicts, and other violent crimes. The organisation noted that a decentralized policing system would allow states to respond more effectively to local security threats while complementing the efforts of federal security agencies.
The group praised President Tinubu for consistently demonstrating support for the creation of state police through his public statements and policy initiatives. Afenifere said the President’s recent remarks on the need to modernize Nigeria’s security architecture showed a clear understanding of the realities facing citizens and the urgent need for reforms capable of improving public safety. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Afenifere also expressed optimism that the constitutional amendment process would succeed, pointing to the growing support from governors, members of the National Assembly, and state Houses of Assembly. The organisation called on all stakeholders to work together to ensure that the bill receives the necessary approvals required for implementation, arguing that further delays could prolong the country’s security difficulties.
The Senate recently approved a constitutional amendment bill that would permit Nigeria’s 36 states to establish their own police forces while allowing the federal police to retain responsibility for national security matters such as counterterrorism, border security, and organised crime. However, the proposal must still receive approval from at least two-thirds of the state legislatures before it can become law.
Afenifere maintained that state police would improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing, and ensure quicker responses to emergencies. The group argued that local security challenges require local solutions and that governors, who are often held accountable for security within their states, should be equipped with the necessary tools and authority to protect their people effectively.
While acknowledging concerns that state police could potentially be misused by political leaders, supporters of the reform believe adequate constitutional safeguards and oversight mechanisms can prevent abuse and ensure accountability. Afenifere therefore urged legislators and governors to place national security above political considerations and fast-track the remaining stages of the process.
The organisation concluded that the successful establishment of state police would represent a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen security, protect lives and property, and restore public confidence in law enforcement across the federation
