Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has described the proposed establishment of state police as a strategic reform aimed at tackling insecurity and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
Barau, who also chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, stated this during an interview on Hannu Da Yawa, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Isma’ila Mudashir, and made available to journalists in Kano.
He said the proposed state police system would complement the Nigeria Police Force by enhancing grassroots policing through the recruitment of officers from local communities who have a better understanding of the security challenges in their respective areas.
According to the Deputy Senate President, the State Police Bill recently passed by the Senate was the outcome of extensive consultations involving the Presidency, the National Assembly, the Inspector-General of Police, retired police officers, security experts, state governors, civil society organisations and members of the public.
He added that public hearings on the proposed constitutional amendment were held across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory to obtain public input before the bill was considered.
Barau explained that the proposed amendment contains safeguards to prevent abuse of state police powers.
According to him, the President would retain the constitutional authority to direct the Federal Police to intervene if any state police service is used to intimidate citizens or threaten lives and property.
He further noted that while the Federal Police would continue to handle national security matters such as terrorism, cybercrime and other federal offences, state police would be responsible for maintaining law and order within their respective states.
The lawmaker also disclosed that commandants of the proposed state police would be appointed through a transparent legal process designed to insulate them from undue political interference.
Addressing concerns over funding and operational capacity, Barau expressed confidence that adequate financial and institutional frameworks would be put in place as the constitutional amendment process progresses.
He urged Nigerians to support the initiative, describing it as a well-considered and consultative reform that would bring policing closer to the people and enhance the protection of lives and property.