State Police: Tor Tiv, Ochi’Idoma demand traditional rulers’ involvement in recruitment
Traditional Rulers Call for Inclusion in State Police Development in Benue
Traditional leaders in Benue State, including the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, and the Ochi’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Agaba-Idu Elaigwu Obagaji, have urged for the inclusion of traditional institutions in the processes of recruiting, operating, and supervising the proposed State Police.
This appeal was made during a colloquium on State Police organized by Lawyers Alert in collaboration with the Bureau of Homeland Security. The event took place at the Father Alia Conference Hall of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in Makurdi.
The Tor Tiv emphasized the significance of community-driven policing, noting that ongoing security challenges in Benue have greatly impacted traditional institutions. He argued that the involvement of traditional rulers in the establishment and management of the State Police is vital for achieving its goals.
“The government should engage traditional authorities in the development of the proposed security outfit, particularly in determining criteria for the recruitment and screening of personnel,” Ayatse stated.
He explained that traditional institutions are closer to the people and possess critical insights into their communities, which could assist security authorities in evaluating the character and backgrounds of potential recruits. He stressed that this knowledge could facilitate the selection of individuals with positive reputations and integrity for service.
Moreover, the Tor Tiv called for a well-defined operational framework to regulate interactions among the proposed State Police, traditional institutions, and other security agencies. This framework should establish clear procedures for intelligence sharing, joint operations, and inter-agency collaboration. He noted that traditional rulers could significantly aid in identifying emerging threats and providing timely information from their communities.
Regarding funding, Ayatse advocated for adequate financial support and a comprehensive budget to ensure the effective functioning of the proposed police force, warning that insufficient funding could hinder its operations and limit its ability to tackle security challenges.
The monarch further highlighted the importance of professionalism and political neutrality, asserting that the new police outfit should prioritize the protection of citizens and communities over personal or partisan interests. He urged stakeholders to move beyond discussions and take concrete steps toward the establishment of State Police, assuring Governor Hyacinth Alia of traditional institutions’ support in this initiative.
Similarly, the Ochi’Idoma called for a well-trained, accountable, and community-oriented State Police capable of addressing the security concerns in Benue State. He emphasized that establishing the new force should involve more than just decentralizing policing. Personnel must undergo professional training, have access to appropriate equipment and technology, and operate in accordance with legal standards.
The Ochi’Idoma also advocated for integrating traditional institutions into the state’s security architecture, citing their strategic position in early identification of potential security threats due to their close ties with local communities. He remarked that traditional institutions could contribute to early-warning systems, intelligence gathering, mediation, community engagement, and conflict prevention without infringing upon the constitutional responsibilities of the police.
He stressed the need for an open and merit-based recruitment process, cautioning against political biases and personal relationships influencing recruitment decisions. Traditional rulers should be consulted during recruitment, as they possess valuable knowledge of individuals within their communities, he added.
On collaboration, the Ochi’Idoma emphasized the importance of effective coordination between the proposed State Police and existing security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, and intelligence agencies. He noted that clearly defined procedures for information sharing, operational coordination, supervision, and accountability are essential to avoid overlapping responsibilities and potential abuse of power.
“The success of the State Police should be measured by its ability to prevent attacks, safeguard lives and property, effectively respond to security threats, and restore citizens’ confidence,” he stated.
The Ochi’Idoma commended the Benue State Government and the Bureau of Homeland Security for facilitating discussions among stakeholders regarding the proposed policing system. He assured organizers that traditional institutions are prepared to support the development of a security structure that prioritizes the needs of the people while upholding professional standards and accountability.
He called upon all stakeholders to ensure that the establishment of the State Police is founded on merit, integrity, professionalism, transparency, and respect for human dignity.
