Experts Warn of Political Risks in State Police Establishment

Experts have raised concerns regarding the establishment of state police in Nigeria, emphasizing that its success will largely depend on safeguards against political interference. In an exclusive interview with Daily Post, security expert Captain Abdullahi Bakoji (Rtd) stated that while state police could significantly improve security by being closer to communities, strict systems must be in place to prevent abuse by political office holders, particularly state governors.

Bakoji noted that differing state revenues could create inequities in police standards across the country, with wealthier states able to sustain a more effective force than poorer ones. Professor Murtala Muhammad, a political analyst and vice president of the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA), highlighted that the passage of the state police bill is critical due to the overstretching of federal police.

He warned that political and financial concerns could complicate implementation, particularly with the potential for governors to appoint state police commissioners, which could deepen patronage risks. The success of state police reform will depend on robust safeguards, including independent oversight and adherence to constitutional loyalty.