Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has sought to dispel fears that the establishment of state police in Nigeria could be exploited by governors to suppress political opponents.
Following the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Governor Sani briefed State House correspondents, revealing that all 36 state governors had submitted their positions on the establishment of state police, with unanimous support for the initiative.
This development adds momentum to longstanding calls for state-controlled police forces, although concerns persist that such powers might be abused.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television on Friday, Governor Sani addressed these apprehensions, suggesting that appropriate legal safeguards by the National Assembly would prevent any misuse.
“The fear that governors might use state police against their opponents can only materialise if the National Assembly and those drafting the law grant such powers,” he explained. “The legislative process ensures a balance by weighing the pros and cons of various clauses.”
Governor Sani argued that if state police had been operational for the past three years, many states in Nigeria would have significantly reduced insecurity, which continues to disrupt business and daily life. He highlighted the potential for state police to enhance intelligence gathering and sharing, given their proximity to local communities and better understanding of the terrain.
On concerns regarding funding, the governor stated that many states already allocate substantial budgets to support federal police operations, indicating that financing state police would not pose a significant challenge.
Governor Sani emphasised the critical role of state governors and state houses of assembly in the process, noting that while the NEC can advocate for state police, collaboration with state legislatures is essential to ensure a seamless and effective implementation.