A one-day national dialogue on state policing organized by the House of Representatives sparked divergent views, highlighting the contentious debate surrounding the establishment of state police in Nigeria.
While some leaders voiced support for state police, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed reservations, citing concerns about potential abuse by state governors.
President Bola Tinubu, inaugurating the dialogue, emphasized the need to carefully consider the implications of state policing amidst ongoing security challenges.
Supporters of state police, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Police Affairs Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja John Cardinal Onaiyekan, and Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, advocated for its adoption.
However, Egbetokun cautioned against decentralizing the police force, citing challenges such as inadequate resources and the potential for abuse by state governors.
The dialogue also witnessed recommendations for addressing existing challenges within the central police force before considering state police.
Former President Jonathan stressed the inevitability of state police, emphasizing the need to prevent political interference and ensure effective management.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar called for transparency and responsibility among governors to maintain peace and security.
Cardinal Onaiyekan proposed addressing funding and welfare issues within the police force before implementing state police.
Ooni of Ife urged swift action from the National Assembly in implementing state police to address escalating security concerns.
Senate President Akpabio emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in establishing state police, drawing inspiration from successful models like that of the United States.
In his remarks, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, thanked participants and highlighted the significance of contributions from former heads of state and presidents to the discourse on state policing.