Senator Barau Advocates for State Police in Nigeria

Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate, has proposed the establishment of state police as part of a strategic reform to tackle insecurity and strengthen Nigeria's security architecture. In an interview, he emphasized that the state police system would complement the Nigerian Police Force by enhancing grassroots policing and ensuring that officers understand local security challenges.

The proposal follows the recent passage of the state police bill in the Senate, which involved extensive consultations with the President, the National Assembly, the Inspector General of Police, retired police officers, security experts, state governors, and civil society organizations. Public hearings were held across six geopolitical zones to gather input.

Barau explained that the proposed constitutional amendments include safeguards to prevent the abuse of state police powers, while the federal police will continue to handle national security matters. He expressed confidence in the financial framework established for the state police and urged Nigerians to support this initiative.