The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, has urged the National Assembly to swiftly approve the creation of state police as a lasting solution to Nigeria’s escalating security crisis.
In an open letter to senators and members of the House of Representatives on Thursday, Daniel said the current security structure had failed to protect citizens from violence, killings, and displacement, particularly in northern Nigeria.
He cited the deteriorating situation in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Qua’an Pan, and Jos South, where frequent attacks have caused loss of lives, disrupted education, food shortages, and severe psychological trauma.
“The creation of state police is a critical step towards tackling these challenges. By empowering state governors to take charge of security, we can ensure faster response times and more effective community policing,” he said.
Daniel acknowledged concerns over potential abuse of power but argued that robust accountability mechanisms and national oversight would prevent misuse and ensure state police operate within the law.
He appealed to federal lawmakers to prioritise public safety over political differences, noting that former Plateau Governor Simon Bako Lalong had also supported the proposal.
“The survival and safety of our people in Plateau State should guide our actions,” Daniel added, calling for immediate legislative action to secure lives and restore peace.