Abia Prepares to Embrace State-Level Law Enforcement, Says Otti

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed the state government's readiness to establish a state police force, with retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Azubuko Uda lending his support to the initiative.

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Uda believes that Abia is well-positioned to take the lead in implementing state police, given its strategic importance as a commercial hub, and that decentralising policing would enhance security coordination and responsiveness at the state level.

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According to Governor Otti, the state government has set the wheels in motion to work out the details for launching a state police force, with the new manager for Home Land Security working towards actualising the proposal.

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The governor stated that the state is preparing to launch its state police force as soon as possible, saying "We are getting ready to launch it once the whistle is blown".

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Uda argued that granting states control over their police formations would ensure better funding, improved welfare, and operational efficiency, as the governor, who funds the police, would ensure they do not suffer from manpower shortages or logistics challenges.

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He noted that Abia's status as a commercial hub, with the city of Aba attracting traders from across Africa, including countries such as Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, makes it essential to have a state-controlled policing system to secure economic corridors and boost investor confidence.

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Uda described the proposed reform as "a welcome development" that would also address the growing apathy among South-East youths towards recruitment into federal security agencies, citing the decline in interest in joining the army or police due to security challenges and lack of trust in leadership.

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He attributed the declining interest to allegations of complicity in acts of terrorism against some individuals in positions of authority, which affects morale and makes youths reluctant to enlist.

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Uda cautioned that the transition to state policing must be carefully planned, inclusive, and driven by expertise, saying "It has to be properly planned" and that experienced stakeholders must be engaged to ensure a seamless transition.

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The debate over state police has gained renewed momentum amid rising security challenges across Nigeria, with proponents arguing that decentralisation remains key to effective law enforcement, following the Presidency's recent greenlight for willing states to establish their own state police.