Expert Advocates Regional Police Reform for Federalism

Dr. Chyma Anthoni, an expert in security matters, has urged the federal government to consider a regional police framework to promote true federalism in Nigeria.

He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent calls for state police as a cornerstone in combating escalating insecurity. During a meeting with Senate members in Abuja, he emphasized the need for the National Assembly to expedite constitutional amendments to allow for the creation of state police forces.

Dr. Anthoni reiterated the importance of decentralizing police to bring law enforcement closer to the people and restore safety.

He pointed out that the current structure of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is overstretched and unable to effectively address security challenges. He also noted that while state police could address federal imbalances, they pose risks of abuse and politicization.

Dr. Anthoni suggested that Nigeria could learn from global policing models, advocating for a balanced approach to reform that would enhance regional security without fragmenting national unity.