Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has advocated for financial independence and robust technological investment to support the establishment of state police forces. During an Arise News town hall in Abuja, Mbah argued that any legal structure for state policing must balance national standards with local operational needs.
He emphasized that state police require a dedicated funding mechanism, potentially through a State Police Service Commission with a first-line charge on the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Drawing from his administration’s experience, Mbah highlighted how Enugu tackled severe security crises by investing in AI-enabled surveillance systems and creating a Distress Response Squad. These measures, according to the governor, have reduced violent crime in the state by over 90 percent.
Regarding concerns that state governors might abuse these powers, Mbah dismissed such fears, noting that gubernatorial tenures are temporary. He insisted that governors must possess sufficient operational authority to meet security mandates, arguing that responsibility without the necessary control is ineffective. Finally, he recommended that constitutional provisions for state police remain concise, allowing future adjustments through legislative acts rather than complex constitutional amendments.
