𝗧𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝘀: 𝗚𝘂𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗔𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗜𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged members of the House of Representatives to ensure that any proposed framework for the creation of state police includes strong constitutional safeguards to prevent abuse, particularly by state governors.

Speaking during discussions around ongoing constitutional amendments, the President stressed the need for caution, transparency, and accountability in designing the state police structure. While acknowledging the growing calls for decentralised policing as a solution to insecurity, he warned that unchecked authority at the state level could lead to political misuse.

According to the President, past experiences in Nigeria’s political landscape demonstrate the importance of embedding protective mechanisms within the system to safeguard citizens’ rights and democratic principles.

Tinubu noted that while security challenges across the country require innovative solutions, reforms must be carefully structured to avoid creating new risks. He urged lawmakers to strike a balance between operational independence for state police and oversight mechanisms that prevent intimidation, suppression of opposition, or partisan control.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening national security architecture but maintained that reforms must reflect fairness, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law.

The debate over state police has intensified in recent months, with proponents arguing that decentralisation would improve response time and local intelligence gathering. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential abuse of power and political interference.

Lawmakers are expected to continue deliberations as constitutional amendment proposals move through legislative processes.