State Police: Our aim is to enact laws, reforms for collective welfare of Nigerians-Kalu

State Police: Our aim is to enact laws, reforms for collective welfare of Nigerians-Kalu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has said that the principal aim of the parliament with regards to the state police bill is to enact laws and pursue reforms that will benefit the collective welfare of the nation.

Acknowledging concerns expressed in some quarters about possible abuse of the policing system at the state level when established, the deputy speaker allayed the fears, saying that the decisions to restructure Nigeria’s policing system is not intended to serve the interests of any individual or political faction.

A statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu stated that Kalu made the submissions at a one day National Dialogue on State Policing themed “Pathways to Peace: Reimagining Policing in Nigeria” organized by the leadership of the House of Representatives with support from Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), UK International Development and the United Nations Development Progragramme ( UNDP) on Monday in Abuja.

Making reference to some jurisdictions which have since embraced multiple layered system of policing, the deputy speaker said it has achieved some success.

He said: “In various jurisdictions worldwide, multi-layered policing systems have been implemented with varying degrees of success.

“Opposition voices argue that introducing multiple layers of
policing could lead to a fragmentation of authority, with different agencies
competing for resources and jurisdictional control. This could result in
confusion and inefficiency in law enforcement efforts. Critics also fear that decentralizing law enforcement powers could increase the risk of abuse of power by local or state-level authorities. Without adequate oversight and accountability mechanisms, there may be instances of corruption, political
interference, or human rights violations.

“Given Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and
regional landscape, opponents caution that multi-layered policing could
exacerbate existing tensions and inequalities. There is concern that certain ethnic or regional groups may feel marginalized or unfairly targeted by local or state police forces, leading to social unrest or conflict.

“In addition, implementing a multi-layered policing system requires
significant financial and logistical resources. Opponents argue that Nigeria
may not have the capacity to adequately fund and support multiple layers
of law enforcement agencies, especially in remote or economically
disadvantaged areas.

“While opponents of multi-layered policing in Nigeria raise valid concerns, it
is essential to address these fears and offer reassurances regarding the
potential benefits and mitigating strategies.

“We recognize that the decisions we make regarding the restructuring of
Nigeria’s policing system are not intended to serve the interests of any
individual or political faction. Rather, we aim to enact laws and reforms that
benefit the collective welfare of our nation. It is important to remember that
political leaders, including governors, come and go, but the institutions and
systems we establish endure. By focusing on the greater good and the
long-term interests of our society, we can transcend partisan divides and
ensure that our laws and policies withstand the test of time.”

Kalu however assured that the national assembly will provide the right frameworks, legislations and oversight that will make state policing work better for Nigerians.

“I want to assure you that the National Assembly, and particularly the House
of Representatives, is fully committed to providing the right frameworks,
legislation, and oversight to make state policing work for the betterment of
Nigerians. We understand the importance of getting this right.
Throughout this dialogue, we will delve into critical issues, gather valuable
insights, and explore data-driven approaches. 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. Together, we can pave the pathways to a more peaceful and secure Nigeria”, Kalu said.

Deputy Speaker’s Welcome Address
NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON STATE POLICING

Theme: Pathways to Peace: Reimagining
Policing in Nigeria
[Protocol]

We convene today for a critical national dialogue on State Policing, aptly
themed “Pathways to Peace: Reimagining Policing in Nigeria.” 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 Current Landscape: A Statistical Analysis

The present policing structure necessitates a data-driven evaluation.

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 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.

I also want to recall our memory of the fact that this critical conversation on state policing gained significant
momentum following an emergency meeting in February 2024 between
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governors at the Aso Rock Villa.
This particular gathering highlighted state policing as a national priority,
reflecting a deep understanding of the need for a new approach to tackling
insecurity.

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.

Charting a Course Forward: National Dialogue and Legislative
Initiatives

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.

Multi-Layered Policing in Comparative Jurisdictions

In various jurisdictions worldwide, multi-layered policing systems have
been implemented with varying degrees of success. These systems often
involve different levels of law enforcement agencies operating concurrently, each with specific responsibilities and jurisdictions. Examining some of these jurisdictions sheds light on the potential benefits and challenges of adopting a similar approach in Nigeria. The United States exemplifies a multi-layered policing system with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. In the United Kingdom, policing is organized into several layers, including regional, and local levels. Canada also employs a multi-layered policing system consisting of federal, provincial, and municipal police forces.

Other jurisdictional examples of multilayered policing include Brazil
and Australia.

Concerns of Opposition Voices to Multi-Layered Policing in Nigeria

Despite the examples of multi-layered policing systems in other
jurisdictions, opponents in Nigeria raise valid concerns about the potential
drawbacks and challenges associated with implementing such a system.

As earlier noted, opposition voices argue that introducing multiple layers of
policing could lead to a fragmentation of authority, with different agencies
competing for resources and jurisdictional control. This could result in
confusion and inefficiency in law enforcement efforts. Critics also fear that decentralizing law enforcement powers could increase the risk of abuse of power by local or state-level authorities. Without adequate oversight and accountability mechanisms, there may be instances of corruption, political
interference, or human rights violations. Given Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and
regional landscape, opponents caution that multi-layered policing could
exacerbate existing tensions and inequalities. There is concern that certain ethnic or regional groups may feel marginalized or unfairly targeted by local or state police forces, leading to social unrest or conflict.
In addition, implementing a multi-layered policing system requires
significant financial and logistical resources. Opponents argue that Nigeria
may not have the capacity to adequately fund and support multiple layers
of law enforcement agencies, especially in remote or economically
disadvantaged areas.

While opponents of multi-layered policing in Nigeria raise valid concerns, it
is essential to address these fears and offer reassurances regarding the
potential benefits and mitigating strategies.

We recognize that the decisions we make regarding the restructuring of
Nigeria’s policing system are not intended to serve the interests of any
individual or political faction. Rather, we aim to enact laws and reforms that
benefit the collective welfare of our nation. It is important to remember that
political leaders, including governors, come and go, but the institutions and
systems we establish endure. By focusing on the greater good and the
long-term interests of our society, we can transcend partisan divides and
ensure that our laws and policies withstand the test of time.

Conclusion

I want to assure you that the National Assembly, and particularly the House
of Representatives, is fully committed to providing the right frameworks,
legislation, and oversight to make state policing work for the betterment of
Nigerians. We understand the importance of getting this right.
Throughout this dialogue, we will delve into critical issues, gather valuable
insights, and explore data-driven approaches. 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.

Together, we can pave the pathways to a more peaceful and secure
Nigeria.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!