State Police Creation Urged to Address Nigeria Insecurity

The Speaker of the Plateau State 10th Assembly, Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, has voiced his support for the creation of state police in an open letter to the National Assembly. He argues that a state police force composed of locals familiar with the terrain would be better equipped to address insecurity and violence, thereby improving safety both in the state and across the country.

Gapyil’s position contrasts with that of Yusuf Gagdi, the lawmaker representing the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, who opposes the establishment of state police. The Speaker emphasizes that the demand for state police is a nationwide issue, not a local one, and points out that the current security architecture has proven inadequate. Despite substantial allocations to security agencies, insecurity persists, and Nigerians continue to live in fear.

Citing frequent attacks on communities in Plateau State—particularly in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Jos South—Gapyil highlights the resulting hardship, health impacts, disruption of education, and threats to food security as evidence of the need for state police. He stresses that creating state police would enable governors to assume responsibility for law and order, allowing more effective responses to security threats.

In his letter, Gapyil underscores that the safety and security of citizens should be a priority for leaders. While acknowledging concerns about potential abuse of power, he argues that robust accountability mechanisms, training programs, and a national framework can address these issues. He urges federal lawmakers to consider establishing state police, setting aside political differences to prioritize citizens’ safety.

The Speaker also calls on Plateau State legislators to prioritize the interests and survival of the state’s people when discussing insecurity. He notes that their words can influence followers and supporters, either alleviating or exacerbating conflicts. As the debate over state police continues, Gapyil’s letter highlights the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and the need for collective action to ensure citizens’ safety.