The National Economic Council (NEC) has set a deadline of September 9, 2024, for all Nigerian states to declare their positions on the establishment of state police. This directive was issued during a recent meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
After the meeting, Acting Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, informed State House correspondents that, out of the 36 states, four had not yet submitted their positions to the NEC. The council has instructed these four states to make their stances known by Monday. Failure to comply will result in those states having to accept the final decision made by the NEC.
The discussion around state police has gained momentum in recent years, with numerous leaders and regional groups, including Afenifere and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, advocating for it as a solution to rising issues such as kidnapping and banditry. This push for state police was further endorsed in mid-February 2024 when President Bola Tinubu and the governors of all 36 states agreed on the need for state police to address Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.
Following this agreement, 16 governors submitted their reports to the NEC, expressing support for the creation of state police and the necessary amendment of the 1999 Constitution. Since then, more states have submitted their positions, leaving only four yet to do so.
Despite widespread support, the proposal has faced criticism. Concerns include potential funding challenges, as some argue that state governors might demand increased monthly allocations. Additionally, there are fears that state police could be used to target political opponents.
