Why state police may bring more problems in Nigeria – Ordinary President
Host of Brekete Family Program Raises Concerns Over State Police
Ahmed Isah, known as the “Ordinary President” and host of the Brekete Family program on Human Rights Radio and Television, has voiced strong opposition to the establishment of state police.
During a recent broadcast, Isah expressed skepticism about the potential effectiveness of state police, suggesting that such a force could be misused by state governors for personal gain. He warned that the creation of state police might exacerbate existing divisions, particularly in states characterized by diverse ethnic groups.
Isah posed a pertinent question regarding the appointment of police leadership in multi-ethnic regions. “For example, in Benue State, which tribe among the Idoma and Tiv would the Commissioner of Police come from?” he queried, emphasizing that the selection of police officials could lead to the marginalization of one group by another.
He cited previous instances in which governors allegedly pressured the removal of police commissioners who did not comply with their demands. Isah argued that if governors are willing to exert influence over federal police, they are unlikely to treat state police any differently.
“State governors determine whether a Commissioner of Police remains in their state,” Isah stated. “Some even influence the selection of army commanders assigned to their regions. What can we expect when they have state police?”
His remarks reflect broader concerns regarding the balance of power and the equitable treatment of citizens in regions with complex social dynamics.
