Nigeria’s long-running debate over state police has taken a dramatic turn as Senate President Godswill Akpabio warned governors against abusing the powers of decentralized policing once it becomes law. His remarks come at a critical moment, with lawmakers moving closer to approving constitutional changes that could reshape the nation’s security framework.
Speaking during plenary, Akpabio stressed that state police should serve the people rather than become a political tool in the hands of those in power. He cautioned that today’s governors would eventually leave office and could one day find themselves under the authority of the same institutions they helped create.
The warning arrives as momentum builds around President Bola Tinubu’s Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish state police. The proposed reform is widely seen as one of the most significant changes to Nigeria’s policing structure since independence, with supporters arguing it could improve local security responses and strengthen community-based law enforcement.
However, concerns over potential misuse remain at the center of the conversation. Critics have expressed fears that state-controlled police could be deployed to intimidate political opponents or influence local power struggles if adequate safeguards are not embedded in the legal framework.
Addressing those concerns, Akpabio indicated that the reform would involve constitutional amendments alongside an Act of Parliament designed to define operational guidelines and prevent abuse. His comments suggest lawmakers are attempting to balance greater security autonomy with accountability and oversight.
As the National Assembly moves toward a decision, Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the proposed safeguards will be enough to inspire public confidence. The outcome could redefine the relationship between federal and state authorities while setting the stage for a new era in the country’s approach to policing and internal security.
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