The terrible Christmas eve attacks in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State have reignited the debate on the urgency of implementing state police in Nigeria. The Initiative for Better and Greater Nigeria, IBBN, has fervently appealed to the Federal Government to prioritize the establishment of state police as a crucial step towards addressing the grave security crises plaguing the nation.
During a press briefing in Jos, the Convener of IBBN, Isa El-buba, expressed deep concern over the violent incidents that resulted in numerous casualties, extensive property damage, and the displacement of 29,350 individuals, who are currently seeking shelter in various places of worship within Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi towns.
El-buba passionately emphasized the imperative need for state policing, emphasizing that it would complement the efforts of the federal security framework, which is undeniably overburdened and inadequate in swiftly responding to urgent security threats.
“We implore the federal government to initiate constitutional amendments to enable the establishment of state policing. This proactive step will serve as crucial reinforcement to areas where immediate intervention is required, preventing the brazen and frequent attacks on vulnerable Nigerians in areas with minimal security presence,” urged El-buba, calling on President Bola Tinubu to interrupt his holiday and initiate the process by presenting a comprehensive bill for state policing to the National Assembly.
The group’s plea echoes the sentiments of many Nigerians who feel that the current centralized security system is unable to effectively address the escalating security challenges faced by various regions. The tragic events in Plateau State have galvanized calls for concrete and proactive measures to confront the pervasive insecurity, with the establishment of state police being hailed as a vital move towards safeguarding citizens and communities across the nation.
