As Nigeria moves closer to establishing a decentralized security framework, former Inspector-General of Police Sir Mike Okiro has shared insights on funding, institutional training, and measures to curb executive overreach. The proposed constitutional changes, which have already secured the backing of numerous state legislatures, aim to introduce a dual policing system across the country.
Funding State Law Enforcement
When the constitutional adjustments finally take effect, individual state administrations will bear the financial responsibility of maintaining their respective law enforcement agencies. Drawing from his experience leading the Nigeria Police Force, Okiro noted that sub-national governments have historically supplemented federal security efforts by procuring operational vehicles and establishing dedicated intervention funds.
"As a Commissioner of Police in Lagos and Benue states, and later as the IGP, I can attest to the operational and funding support given to the police by state governments," Okiro explained. He pointed to examples like Lagos State—which pioneered specialized outfits such as Operation Sweep, later evolving into the Rapid Response Squad—and Enugu State, which operates an advanced digital surveillance and forensic analysis infrastructure.
Addressing concerns about fiscal capacity, Okiro acknowledged that some states struggle with regular personnel payments but emphasized that security remains a foundational prerequisite for development. He suggested that federal intervention could assist states facing temporary financial constraints, noting that increased federal allocations and existing security votes provide a viable cushion.
Manpower and Curriculum Harmonization
Training infrastructure remains a critical component of the upcoming transition. According to Okiro, existing police academies and training institutions can harmonize their course contents while new regional training colleges are established.
He highlighted that Nigeria possesses a large pool of unemployed graduates with relevant qualifications in Criminology, Sociology, Psychology, and Law who can be readily absorbed. Furthermore, retired law enforcement officers and experienced educators are readily available to manage the proposed training institutions.
Checks Against Political Abuse
A primary concern surrounding decentralized policing is the potential for political victimization by state chief executives, reminiscent of regional security dynamics during the First Republic. To mitigate this risk, Okiro stressed the importance of robust legislative safeguards.
"Provisions should be made in the law to ensure that the offices of the Inspector-General of Police and Commissioners of Police are insulated from abuse," he stated. He referenced tenure protections introduced in recent legislative updates, which shield police leadership from arbitrary dismissal.
Under the proposed framework, governors are legally barred from deploying state security operatives for partisan, religious, or personal objectives. Additionally, the National Assembly is mandated to set national minimum standards for recruitment, training, discipline, and human rights compliance, ensuring that states maintain professional benchmarks.