Sharia Council Urges Caution on State Police Rollout

The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria cautioned the Federal Government and the National Assembly against hastily amending the constitution to establish state police. In a statement issued by Secretary-General Nafiu Ahmad, the council emphasized the need for broader national consultations before any final decision on the proposed reform.

While acknowledging Nigeria's severe security crisis, the council argued that state police should not be viewed as a quick fix. It pointed out that the current security challenges stem from inadequate funding, corruption, poor welfare, insufficient personnel, weak intelligence, obsolete equipment, and poor coordination among security agencies.

The council stressed that merely transferring policing powers to state governments would not resolve these issues. It expressed disappointment with the National Assembly's handling of the process, calling for extensive consultations and safeguards to prevent state police from becoming tools of political intimidation.

The council advocated for independent oversight, merit-based recruitment, and sustainable funding to ensure equal protection for all citizens.