Labour Party Backs State Police Bill in Nigeria

The Labour Party (LP) has expressed its support for a bill aimed at establishing state police in Nigeria, urging governors to endorse this constitutional reform. In a statement issued by LP National Public Secretary Ken Asogwa, the party praised the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, for its courageous and swift passage of the bill.

This legislation, recently transmitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is seen as a significant milestone in Nigeria's efforts to tackle escalating security challenges and bring policing closer to local communities. The LP recognizes concerns about potential abuse of state police by governors for political purposes but argues for the necessity of decentralized policing structures to effectively address Nigeria's worsening security situation.

The party calls for constitutional safeguards to prevent abuse and ensure accountability in the operation of state police. Asogwa emphasized the urgent need for innovative approaches to security management, urging governors and state lawmakers to prioritize national interest over partisan considerations in supporting the bill.