In response to the escalating security challenges plaguing the nation, the Federal Government and state governors have initiated discussions on the possibility of establishing state police forces.
This significant development emerged following deliberations between President Bola Tinubu and state governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, shed light on the discussions surrounding the establishment of state police.
He emphasized that while the concept is still in its early stages, there is a shared recognition of the imperative to explore this avenue as a means of enhancing security across the country.
Idris outlined the ongoing deliberative process, highlighting the need for extensive consultations and collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments to delineate the modalities for implementing state police forces effectively.
He stated, “The Federal Government and the state governments are mulling the possibility of setting up state police. Of course, this is still going to be further discussed. A lot of work has to be done in that direction. Both the Federal Government and the state governments agree on the necessity of having state police.”
The consideration of state police marks a significant departure from the existing centralized policing structure and reflects a growing consensus among stakeholders regarding the need for localized security initiatives tailored to address specific regional challenges.
However, Idris cautioned that while the proposal holds promise, it necessitates careful deliberation and meticulous planning to ensure its successful implementation.
He underscored the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration between the various tiers of government to iron out the complexities associated with establishing state police forces.
