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Naija News • 15h ago

Igbo Group calls for return of regional police amid state policing debate

Igbo Group calls for return of regional police amid state policing debate
**Ndigbo Group Advocates for Regional Police, Cautions Against State Policing** In a statement, the Ndigbo Worldwide Union has lent its voice to the ongoing debate on policing in Nigeria, calling for the revival of regional police to address the country's worsening insecurity. The union, which represents the interests of the Igbo people, expressed reservations about the proposal for state policing, which it fears could be misused by governors. According to the statement signed by its President, Mazi Ben Nwankwo, and Secretary, Chief Charles Edemuzo, the union believes that regional police will be more effective in addressing the security challenges facing the country. They argued that regional police will be better positioned to understand the unique security needs of their respective regions and respond accordingly. The group's concern about state policing is that it may lead to a situation where governors, who are often at the centre of regional power struggles, abuse their powers to intimidate and suppress opposition voices. This, the union warned, could undermine the country's fragile democratic institutions and create an environment conducive to human rights abuses. The Ndigbo Worldwide Union's call for regional police is not new, but it comes at a time when the debate on policing is gaining momentum across the country. The union's position is also informed by the experiences of the Igbo people, who have been at the receiving end of state-sponsored violence and marginalization in the past. In the context of Nigeria's complex security landscape, where herder-farmer conflicts, Boko Haram insurgency, and kidnappings have become a norm, the need for effective policing has never been more urgent. While the proposal for state policing has its merits, the Ndigbo Worldwide Union's cautionary note highlights the need for careful consideration and a nuanced approach to addressing the country's security challenges. Ultimately, the union's call for regional police is a reminder that policing is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and that what works in one region may not work in another. As the debate on policing continues, it is essential to engage in a robust and inclusive conversation that takes into account the diverse perspectives and experiences of Nigerians.
Source: Original Article • AI-enhanced version for clarity & Nigerian context