By Francis Onabis
The Risks of State Police
The growing call for state police in Nigeria reflects a genuine concern about rising insecurity. However, granting governors authority to establish and control armed police forces risks deepening political abuse, victimization, and instability.
A Better Solution
Instead of fragmenting law enforcement, Nigeria should focus on overhauling and strengthening the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) as a national institution. Reform should focus on four key areas:
- Redefining Police Priorities: The NPF should serve citizens, not just politicians. A dedicated Secret Service Protection Unit could handle VIP protection.
- Police Welfare and Incentives: Policymakers must prioritize competitive salaries, healthcare, housing, and pensions for officers.
- Funding and Accountability: Redirecting “security votes” to support the police, with legislative oversight, would improve equipment, training, and operational capacity.
- Modernization and Capacity Building: Invest in advanced technology, forensic tools, and professional training.
Policy Recommendations
To achieve these goals, consider the following reforms:
- Establish a National Police Reform Bill
- Create a Secret Service Protection Unit
- Redirect state “security votes” to a Police Welfare and Equipment Fund
- Introduce a National Police Welfare Framework
- Provide statutory funding for modern policing tools
- Mandate annual training and professional certification
- Establish a National Policing Oversight Committee
Conclusion
Nigeria needs a professional, well-resourced, and accountable national police service. Reforming the NPF is a wiser and safer path than creating parallel state forces. Let’s focus on building institutions, not multiplying weaknesses.