A federal lawmaker from Nigeria’s Plateau State has opposed the creation of state police, citing concerns that governors could misuse the force. Yusuf Gagdi, who represents the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, rejected the idea while visiting communities plagued by armed bandits and militias in Kanam. His stance contrasts sharply with that of Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who has consistently advocated for state police as a solution to the region’s security challenges.
Gagdi argued that state police would likely be deployed against perceived political opponents rather than to maintain peace and order. He emphasized the need to strengthen existing security agencies—such as the police, military, and Department of State Services—through better funding and greater accountability. With more than a decade of experience in the House of Representatives, the lawmaker maintains that Nigeria is not yet ready for a proliferation of security agencies.
Despite the growing presence of bandits in his constituency’s communities—including Garga, Kukawa, Kyaram, Gyambau, Dungur, and Shuwaka—Gagdi believes that creating state police is not the solution. He called for intensified operations by federal security agencies in the forests along the borders of Plateau, Taraba, and Bauchi states to combat criminal activities.
Gagdi’s position highlights the ongoing debate over the role of state police in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. Proponents argue that state police would enable more effective, localized responses to threats, while opponents like Gagdi warn of potential abuses of power. As the discussion continues, the federal government and security agencies face increasing pressure to find effective solutions to the country’s persistent security issues.
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