Igbo Union Advocates for Regional Policing in Nigeria

The Ndi Igbo Worldwide Union, represented by President Mazi Ben Nwankwo and Secretary Chief Charl Edemuzo, has publicly rejected the proposal to establish state police in Nigeria. In a statement issued on Saturday, the group argued for a return to a regional policing structure similar to that which existed from 1955 until the 1966 military coup.

They believe that regional policing would more effectively address Nigeria's escalating security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence. The union warned that creating state police would not resolve the underlying issues and emphasized that the current central policing system has eroded public confidence.

They highlighted the historical success of regional police forces, which were familiar with local languages, cultures, and geography, fostering trust and improving security. The statement comes amid ongoing national debates about decentralizing policing in Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu advocating for constitutional amendments to allow state police.

The union urged prioritization of regional policing reforms to restore genuine autonomy and stability.