ABUJA, NIGERIA – State governors are sharply divided over the establishment of state police, as worsening insecurity across the country reignites the decades-old debate on decentralizing Nigeria’s policing architecture.
Sources at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) secretariat revealed that during an emergency virtual meeting held over the weekend, governors were split into two opposing camps. Those from the southern and north-central regions largely backed the creation of state police, arguing that localized security challenges require prompt, community-based responses. However, several northern governors expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over potential abuse by state executives and the risk of ethnic militias.
“The governors are not on the same page. While some believe state police is the only solution to banditry and kidnapping, others fear it could be weaponized against political opponents,” a source close to the forum disclosed.
The debate has gained renewed urgency following a surge in deadly attacks, abductions, and banditry across multiple states. Recent incidents in Kwara, Sokoto, and the Federal Capital Territory have amplified calls for urgent reform.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier indicated openness to the idea, though he emphasized the need for consensus and constitutional amendments. The NGF is expected to submit a position paper to the National Assembly in the coming weeks.
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