Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate, has characterized President Bola Tinubu’s proposal for state-level policing as a significant step toward improving Nigeria’s security framework. Jibrin, who leads the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, believes this reform will enhance community-based law enforcement and bolster the national response to various security threats.
During an appearance on Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Jibrin highlighted that the proposal follows comprehensive legislative review, including public forums held throughout the nation’s six geopolitical zones and the FCT. According to a statement released by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, the bill was crafted through widespread collaboration with government officials, police leadership, and the public to address the long-standing desire for localized policing.
Addressing common concerns regarding potential misuse, Jibrin noted that the legislation includes specific protections to prevent political or ethnic abuse. He emphasized that state police units would work alongside the federal force rather than replacing it. By recruiting personnel from local areas, these officers will have a deeper understanding of their specific terrains and the individuals within their communities, which should aid in curbing crimes like kidnapping and banditry.
The framework also grants the President authority to intervene should state forces be used to intimidate citizens. While the federal police will maintain jurisdiction over national issues like cybercrime and terrorism, state units will concentrate on local order. Jibrin concluded by encouraging public support for the reform, framing it as a necessary shift in national security policy designed to protect citizens while maintaining strict oversight.
