The Senate has explained why the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is excluded from the proposed state police arrangement being considered as part of efforts to improve security across Nigeria.
CDA News Nigeria reports that the issue has attracted attention amid ongoing discussions about restructuring the country’s security architecture and allowing states to establish their own police forces.
The Senate said the exclusion of the FCT is linked to its special constitutional status. Unlike Nigeria’s 36 states, the FCT is administered directly by the Federal Government.
The position means that security arrangements within the nation’s capital would remain under federal control rather than being transferred to a state police structure.
CDA News gathered that lawmakers have continued to examine the implications of state police, including funding, recruitment, command structure and safeguards against political interference.
Supporters of state police argue that decentralising policing could improve intelligence gathering and allow security agencies to respond more quickly to crimes and local threats.
However, concerns have also been raised about possible abuse of state police by political actors, especially during elections and periods of political tension.
The debate has therefore focused on creating a system that can improve community policing while maintaining professional standards, accountability and respect for citizens’ rights.
The **FCT excluded from state police** position reflects the unique administrative status of Abuja as the country’s capital.
Further legislative discussions are expected as lawmakers consider broader reforms to Nigeria’s policing and security system.
CDA News Nigeria will continue to monitor developments surrounding the proposed state police framework.
