Insecurity worsens as Nigerian govt mulls establishment of state police

The possibility of establishing state police forces is being considered by both federal and state governments as a response to the escalating security challenges in the country.

Muhammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, disclosed this development on Thursday following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu and state governors.

This decision follows a surge in the activities of daring bandits and other criminal elements causing chaos nationwide.

Idris stated that while there is consensus on exploring the creation of state police, further discussions and groundwork are necessary.

“The federal government and the governors are considering the possibility of establishing state police. Of course, this is still going to be further discussed, and a lot of work has to be done in that direction,” he said.

Acknowledging the significance of this shift, he noted, “The federal and state governments are agreeing to the necessity of having state police. This is a significant shift, but like I said, more work needs to be done.”

He also pointed out the upcoming series of meetings between the federal government and the sub-national entities to discuss the modalities for implementing this initiative.