President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that establishing state police is essential for enhancing security across Nigeria. His statement coincided with calls from Northern elders for a state of emergency in the North due to ongoing insecurity that has severely affected the region’s socio-economic landscape.
During a meeting with Katsina indigenes at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing insecurity. He noted that security agencies would reassess their operations, particularly in Katsina, which has seen a rise in banditry. The President also announced plans to deploy advanced military equipment and enhance the capacity of newly recruited forest guards.
Tinubu highlighted the need for collaboration with the National Assembly to discuss the creation of state police, declaring, “We will defeat insecurity. We must protect our children, our people, our livelihood, our places of worship, and our recreational spaces.”
Response from Stakeholders
The declaration has garnered support from various socio-political groups, including Afenifere, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), and the Middle Belt Forum (MBF). Afenifere Chairman Oba Olu Falae remarked that state police is long overdue and essential for effective local governance.
Conversely, retired General Ijioma Nwokoro Ijioma expressed skepticism, arguing that state police could be misused by governors for political ends. He maintained that revitalizing the federal police would be a more effective solution.
Northern Elders’ Call for Emergency
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has urged the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the North. They pointed to escalating violence, including recent attacks on mosques and villages, as justification for their request.
Broader Context
Senator Ali Ndume and Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar also spoke on the issue, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to combat terrorism and insecurity in the region.
As the country grapples with these pressing security challenges, the discussions around state policing and emergency measures continue to evolve.