Prince Nweze Onu, the Deputy National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has voiced concerns that the recently approved State Police Bill might be exploited by political figures, potentially threatening the integrity of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. While acknowledging the long-standing argument that local policing could improve security, Onu emphasized that the lack of necessary protections makes the current proposal dangerous.
In a formal statement, Onu criticized the rapid legislative process used to pass the bill, suggesting that such a significant structural change required more extensive public debate and evaluation. He highlighted that essential elements like independent funding, operational autonomy, and strong constitutional oversight remain insufficiently defined. He worried that without strict safeguards, governors might manipulate these forces to silence critics or harass political rivals.
Drawing parallels to existing regional outfits like the South-West’s Amotekun and the South-East’s Ebubeagu, Onu noted that reports of bias and political partiality already plague these organizations. He advised the Federal Government and the National Assembly to analyze the failures of these current groups before moving forward with a national rollout. According to Onu, security forces must function impartially, prioritizing the protection of all citizens regardless of their background or political standing. He concluded by advocating for a slower, more deliberate reform process that builds public trust rather than fostering political persecution.
