The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has submitted a 75-page framework for the establishment of State Police to the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I Jibrin. The framework, which outlines the proposed modus operandi of the State Police, was submitted on behalf of the IGP by Professor Olu Ogunsakin, the Chairman of a committee set up by the Nigeria Police Force to examine the modalities for the establishment of State Police in Nigeria.
The framework was submitted at Senator Barau's office in the National Assembly, Abuja, on Thursday. The Deputy President of the Senate has commended the IGP for his efforts to decentralise policing in the country, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's agenda to secure the nation.
The IGP's report is expected to contribute to ongoing deliberations on the establishment of State Police, which is a critical aspect of national security architecture. The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, under Senator Barau's chairmanship, will consider the framework along with other submissions.
The Inspector General of Police's submission is a significant step towards implementing the President's agenda, which aims to fully secure the country. The establishment of State Police is expected to bring policing closer to the people, addressing concerns about the current centralised system.
The submission of the State Police framework to the Deputy President of the Senate is a long-overdue step towards decentralising policing in Nigeria. While the IGP's efforts are commendable, the real test lies in the implementation of this framework. The Senate Committee must now carefully consider the framework and other submissions to ensure that the establishment of State Police is done in a way that addresses the concerns of Nigerians. The success of this initiative will depend on the government's ability to provide adequate resources and support to the State Police. The people of Nigeria expect nothing but a well-coordinated and effective policing system that prioritises their safety and security.
