Igbo Organization Demands Reinstatement of Community-Based Law Enforcement Amid Ongoing Discussion on State-Level Policing

The Ndigbo Worldwide Union is advocating for the reinstatement of regional police in Nigeria, viewing proposals for state policing as a potential diversion that could be exploited by governors for their own gain.

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This stance was conveyed in a statement jointly signed by the union's President, Mazi Ben Nwankwo, and Secretary, Chief Charles Edemuzo, who emphasized that Nigeria's escalating insecurity necessitates a reversion to the regional policing model that was in place prior to 1966.

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The union acknowledges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to push for constitutional amendments that would permit state police, yet maintains that regional policing presents a more practical and balanced solution to the country's security challenges.

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A historical context is cited by the group, noting that Nigeria experienced a period of relative peace and progress between 1955 and 1966, when regions enjoyed considerable autonomy, including independent police forces.

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During this period, officers native to their respective regions were better equipped to understand local languages, cultures, and terrain, thereby making policing more effective and fostering trust within the community.

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The union warns that establishing separate police forces for each of Nigeria's 36 states could render the system vulnerable to manipulation by political leaders.

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The statement underscores the benefits of regional police, asserting that it would align with Nigeria's federal structure, enhance local intelligence, and mitigate the risk of governors exploiting security agencies for their own purposes.

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The Ndigbo Worldwide Union is urging the Federal Government and the National Assembly to prioritize constitutional amendments aimed at restoring regional policing.

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The union emphasizes that the time for superficial reforms has passed, and that a return to regional governance is essential if Nigeria hopes to effectively address its insecurity challenges.