Law Enforcement Agency: Falana, Gani Adams, and several others demand effective administration

Mr Femi Falana, a renowned legal expert and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, advocated for a robust framework to govern state police, emphasizing its crucial role in ensuring their effectiveness, during a lecture on Thursday.

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He cautioned that the absence of such a mechanism could lead to the exploitation and misuse of state police as a means of suppressing citizens, highlighting the potential risks of unchecked power.

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The Fifth Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture, held in Ikeja, served as the platform for Falana's remarks, with the event centered around the theme "Can Nigeria Democracy Work Without Restructuring?"

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Falana stressed the need for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria's governance system, underscoring the importance of genuine federalism and the need to redefine the country's power structures, stating that "restructuring is about who are the beneficiaries."

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He expressed concerns that some state governments have utilized security agencies to target opposition figures and journalists, warning that state police could be employed for similar purposes if not properly regulated and managed.

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Falana urged against manipulation of the electoral system, emphasizing the need for collective action to promote the interests of the people, as he stated "we must stop agonising and we must get organised in the interest of our people."

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Mr Lanre Arogundade, President of the International Press Centre, echoed Falana's sentiments, warning that poorly structured state police could become an instrument of oppression, and highlighting the need for a people-centric approach to state policing.

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Arogundade noted that some state governments have used security agencies to target opposition and journalists, emphasizing the importance of democratic management of state police to prevent such abuses.

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He emphasized that Nigeria requires state police that serve the interests of all citizens, and urged stakeholders to work towards creating a system that prioritizes the welfare and security of all Nigerians.

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Arogundade also advised governments to invest in science and technology to address insecurity more effectively, promoting a multifaceted approach to combating crime and promoting public safety.

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Chief Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, also called for the establishment of state police, emphasizing the need for a well-structured mechanism that benefits citizens and promotes their security.

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Adams expressed his willingness to collaborate with governments to provide adequate security for the people, highlighting the importance of collective action in promoting public safety and security.

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He added that the best way to honor the late Yinka Odumakin was for activists and civil society groups to remain committed to justice, democracy, and good governance, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire positive change.

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Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, also advocated for the establishment of state police, joining a chorus of voices calling for reform and improvement in the country's security apparatus.

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The event, which was attended by members of civil society groups, featured a range of notable figures, including right campaigners such as Mr Omoyele Sowore, Olumide Fusika, Agba Jalingo, and Richard Akinola.