IG Proposes 60-Month Plan for State Police Decentralization

Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu has proposed a comprehensive 75-page framework to decentralize policing in Nigeria over a 60-month period. This plan includes a 3% allocation from the federal account for state police funding, alongside a mandatory minimum contribution of 15% from each state's security budget.

The proposal aims to transition 60% of Nigeria's existing police personnel to state police, with 40% remaining under federal control. Disu submitted this framework to the National Assembly, emphasizing the need for strict safeguards against political abuse and a community-driven operational model.

The framework outlines a two-tier police architecture to enhance local crime response, including the establishment of community policing structures. It also introduces constitutional safeguards to ensure the independence of state police services and proposes the creation of state police ombudsmen to address political abuses.

The plan is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen internal security and rebuild public trust in the police system.