The call for state police in Nigeria has gained significant momentum, with major socio‑cultural organizations—including Afenifere, Ohanaeze, and the Arewa Youths—throwing their weight behind the initiative. This development arrives as the federal government contemplates establishing state police to address the nation’s security challenges. For decades, the debate over state police has persisted; proponents argue that a decentralized force would better police Nigeria’s vast and diverse population, while opponents warn of potential politicisation by state governors.
President Bola Tinubu recently met with state governors to discuss the possibility of setting up state police, sparking both optimism and apprehension among stakeholders. The State Police Constitution Alteration Bill is now before the Senate and the House of Representatives, and lawmakers are expected to vote on it soon. If passed, the bill would pave the way for the creation of state police, subject to approval by each state’s House of Assembly.
Afenifere, a pan‑Yoruba socio‑political organization, has expressed support for state police, arguing that Nigeria is ripe for the initiative. Its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, suggested inserting clauses into the state police law to prevent governors from abusing their powers. Afenifere also called on the federal government to identify and prosecute sponsors of terrorism, which has reached alarming levels.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, representing the Igbo people, also backs the creation of state police. However, its factional Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, warned that some northern governors might use state police to undermine President Tinubu’s administration in 2027. He emphasized the need for comprehensive police reforms to prevent abuse of power by state governors.
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has likewise endorsed the establishment of state police, citing the need for localized security measures to address unique regional challenges. Its President, Alhaji Shettima Yerima, argued that state police would enable law enforcement to respond more effectively to local security needs and foster trust between citizens and the police. Yerima suggested a robust accountability and oversight framework to prevent politicisation by governors.
The creation of state police in Nigeria carries significant implications for the country’s security and governance. As the debate continues, it is essential to address the concerns of various stakeholders and ensure that the initiative is implemented with accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. With the National Assembly set to vote on the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill, the fate of the initiative hangs in the balance, and its outcome will likely shape Nigeria’s security landscape for years to come.
Comments are closed for this story.