Godswill Akpabio has warned Nigerian governors against misusing state police once it is established.
Akpabio gave the caution on Tuesday during plenary as the National Assembly moves closer to approving the creation of state police as part of efforts to address insecurity across the country.
The warning followed the submission of a Constitution Alteration Bill by Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly, seeking legal backing for the establishment of state police.
Reports indicate that the Nigerian Senate has scheduled Wednesday for the consideration and possible passage of the bill.
Speaking during the session, Akpabio stressed that the new policing structure must not become a tool for political oppression, noting that governors who support its creation today will one day leave office and may also be subject to the same system.
He noted that Nigeria has operated a centralized police system since independence in 1960 and described the move toward decentralisation as a major step. He added that the process would be implemented in two stages — through constitutional amendment and an Act of Parliament that would outline safeguards to prevent abuse.
BACKSTORY…
The push for state police in Nigeria has gained momentum in recent years amid rising insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes across several parts of the country. Many stakeholders have argued that decentralising the police force could improve response time and strengthen local security efforts.
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For decades, Nigeria has operated a centralised policing system, with the federal government maintaining control over law enforcement. However, the idea of state police has often sparked debate, with critics warning that governors could misuse the structure to intimidate political opponents or suppress dissent.
As discussions around constitutional amendments progress, Godswill Akpabio’s warning reflects long-standing concerns about accountability and safeguards. His comments come as lawmakers move closer to deciding on a major reform that could reshape Nigeria’s security architecture.
