State Police not magic solution to insecurity — Security analyst, Ex-JTF Commander
Debate Surrounds Creation of State Police in Nigeria
Former Joint Task Force Commander Dr. Isma’il Tanko Wudilawa has raised concerns regarding the proposed establishment of state police in Nigeria, suggesting it may lead to more questions than answers.
In an interview with DAILY POST, Wudilawa noted that the state police bill has been under consideration since the 1990s but has yet to be passed due to a variety of challenges. Despite these obstacles, he acknowledged potential benefits, emphasizing the importance of careful management.
“What would happen to the Federal Police? Would every officer be reassigned to their states, or would they collaborate? There could be a clash of interests,” he said. However, he pointed out that a well-structured state police force could significantly enhance crime detection efforts.
“State police would facilitate intelligence gathering since they are more localized. Incidents could be reported more rapidly compared to the Federal Police, which often contends with bureaucratic delays,” Wudilawa explained.
He also highlighted significant challenges, including concerns over funding and potential misuse of power. “If states cannot meet salary obligations, this could pose a serious problem,” he warned. Additionally, he raised alarms about corruption and political influence. “A drug dealer with political connections could gain a position, thereby facilitating crime,” he said.
Wudilawa emphasized the need for traditional leaders to play a role in the recruitment process to prevent the politicization of state police, stating, “Community leaders, including ward heads, imams, pastors, and elders, should be actively involved.”
He advised the government against politicizing the initiative, noting that the passage of the bill is merely the beginning and that more work is needed to ensure its effectiveness.
Retired Capt. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, a military officer and security analyst, echoed these sentiments. He stressed that the focus of the discourse should not solely be on whether Nigeria needs state police, but on whether adequate constitutional and institutional safeguards are in place to prevent abuse.
“I recognize that Nigeria’s centralized policing system has struggled with security challenges, particularly banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and communal conflicts,” Adamu remarked. He believes decentralizing policing could improve intelligence gathering and community-based security.
Adamu also acknowledged valid concerns from the public regarding potential misuse of state police by political figures. “The success of state police will depend on its implementation,” he stated. He called for independent oversight, professional recruitment, and a commitment to human rights standards to ensure accountability.
“It is crucial that policing remains under the rule of law,” he added. Adamu believes that, if properly implemented, state police could significantly enhance Nigeria’s internal security framework but cautioned that failing to do so could create new governance challenges.
“The emphasis should be on developing a professional, accountable, and community-centered policing system that serves all citizens impartially,” he concluded.