Dialogue On State Police: Reps Commit To Provide Needed Framework, Legislation, Oversight

By Gloria Ikibah

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu has reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to providing the right frameworks, legislation, and oversight to make state policing work for the betterment of Nigerians.

Kalu stated this at a one-day National Dialogue on State Policing with the Theme: Pathways to Peace: Reimagining
Policing in in Nigeria on Monday in Abuja, organised by the House of Representatives with support from the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre PLAC, UK International Development and UNDP.

According to him, the dialogue will look into critical issues, gather valuable insights, and explore data-driven approaches.

He said: “We understand the importance of getting this right.

“The information and recommendations gathered here will be crucial in shaping the future of policing in Nigeria

“We are optimistic that through collaborative efforts and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can establish a policing system that is not
only effective in combating crime but also earns the trust of Nigerians and
cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve”.

The Deputy Speaker explained that with about 370,000 police officers in Nigeria, the ratio of one police is 1:600 which is way higher that the United Nations ratio of 1 police to 450 people.

This he is not enough to attend to the humongous security challenges bedevilling the country.

“The escalating security challenges facing our country demand innovative
solutions and candid discussions. The National Assembly, particularly the
House of Representatives recognizes the gravity of this situation and is
firmly committed to exploring all viable options that will lead to a safer and
more secure Nigeria for its citizens.

“The United Nations recommends a police-to-citizen ratio of 1:450 (one police officer per 600 citizens). Regrettably, Nigeria’s current reality falls far short of this benchmark. As reported by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in November 2023, Nigeria has a national police force of approximately
370,000 officers. This translates to a concerning ratio of roughly one officer
per 600 citizens. This significant understaffing is further compounded by resource deficiencies.

“Since 2016, estimates suggest over ₦5 billion has been paid in ransoms to
kidnappers, a figure that starkly exposes the alarming growth of this criminal enterprise in the country. Furthermore, the 2024 Global Terrorism Index paints a concerning picture, ranking Nigeria fourth in Sub-Saharan
Africa and eighth are globally for countries most impacted by terrorism. These statistics underscore the urgent need for a multi-layered policing approach that prioritizes local security and enables a more responsive policing environment in Nigeria.

“The Nigerian Discourse: Divergent Paths
Nigerians are understandably divided in their proposed solutions to the
nation’s security challenges. One school of thought advocates for a return
to multilayered policing. Proponents of this approach argue for the
re-establishment of state police forces to operate alongside the existing
federal police structure. They believe this competitive model would
incentivize states to prioritize security within their territories, ultimately
attracting businesses and residents while boosting state economies
through increased job creation and tax revenue.

“Conversely, others maintain that the current unitary system can be
reformed to address security concerns. These individuals acknowledge
shortcomings in past policing practices but believe a revamped federal
model can be optimized for improved national security. It is pertinent to
note that regardless of these arguments, the subnationals in Nigeria
already practice some forms of multi-layered policing – from the Amotekun
in the South West to the Ebube-Agu in the South East as with the pioneer
Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in the North East geopolitical zone.

“The House of Representatives is currently considering Bill HB.617, a
Constitution Alteration Bill on State Policing sponsored by myself and
thirteen esteemed colleagues. This national dialogue presents a valuable
opportunity for cross-fertilization of ideas on the most effective path
towards establishing state policing in Nigeria. Through open discussions
and a thorough examination of all perspectives, we can identify the optimal
strategy for a more secure and peaceful Nigeria, “Kalu added.

Present at the occasion was the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Deputy President of the Senate, Royal Fathers, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State, General Abdusalami Abubakar, religious leaders among others.