Presidency announces state police structure almost finalized

Notable headway has been achieved in the quest to establish state police, with a constitutional amendment anticipated in the near future, following thorough discussions among pivotal stakeholders, as announced by the Presidency on Thursday.

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This development was revealed by Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, while addressing State House correspondents after a high-stakes consultative meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

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The process, which was initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has garnered significant momentum over the past three to four months, with the current focus on finalising the necessary constitutional amendment to pave the way for state police.

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According to Gbajabiamila, the establishment of state police is a complex undertaking that cannot be accomplished hastily, given the intricate constitutional and legal considerations involved, but substantial progress has been made.

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Gbajabiamila further explained that while efforts are underway to secure the constitutional amendment, the enabling legislation will be pursued once the amendment is obtained.

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The national discourse has shifted from debating the merits of state police to deliberating on the optimal structure for its legal and institutional framework, ensuring its effective operation, as noted by Gbajabiamila.

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A comprehensive report on the outcome of the consultations will be presented to President Tinubu, who has been a steadfast advocate for decentralised policing as a means of bolstering Nigeria's security architecture.

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The meeting was part of a series of engagements undertaken by the Federal Government to develop a viable framework for state police, with the aim of enhancing internal security, improving intelligence gathering, and empowering sub-national governments to address emerging security challenges.

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The meeting was attended by notable figures, including Deputy President of the Senate Jibrin Barau, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, among other senior officials.

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The push for state police has regained momentum in recent months, driven by growing concerns over Nigeria's security challenges, with proponents arguing that a decentralised policing system would enhance grassroots security and improve the protection of lives and property nationwide.