Committee Proposes Oversight for Nigeria's State Police

A committee has proposed a strong multi-layer oversight framework for the establishment of the State Police Service (SPS) in Nigeria to prevent political interference and abuse. Chaired by Prof. Olu Ogunsakin, the committee disclosed its report during its inauguration in Abuja, led by Inspector General of Police Mr. Olatunji Disu.

The report emphasizes the need for robust independent oversight to ensure that the SPS serves the community rather than political patrons. It highlights that a single oversight body could be vulnerable to political capture, thus proposing an architecture that creates overlapping, mutually reinforcing lines of accountability to prevent systemic abuse.

The report also notes the existing accountability deficit within the Nigerian police force, citing issues such as the Endsars protests and custodial deaths. The proposed State Police Service Commission (SPSC) will consist of experts in public administration, civil society, and human rights, with members appointed by state governors and confirmed by state houses of assembly for a four-year tenure.

The SPSC will oversee the state police budget, review performance data, and publish annual reports.