The Necessity of State Police in Nigeria

The establishment of various levels of policing is common in nations organized as federations. State police, at a minimum, enable Nigerians to form law enforcement agencies that are rooted in their communities and can effectively respond to local needs.

The recent announcement by Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, regarding the formation of an eight-member committee to advance the implementation of state police signals that the idea is finally gaining traction. With ongoing discussions in the National Assembly focused on amending Section 214 of the 1999 Constitution—which currently prohibits any law enforcement body apart from the Nigeria Police Force—this marks a commitment from the Federal Government towards state policing. The history of advocating for state police in Nigeria has been lengthy and contentious. The absurdity of expecting the Inspector General of Police to oversee everyday security operations in diverse locations such as Maiduguri, Aba, Jos, Yenagoa, and Lagos speaks to the strange persistence of this situation.

Notably, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who once championed the concept of state police during his tenure as governor of Lagos, now stands as president overseeing its implementation. Criticism of the government is often swift; thus, it is equally crucial to acknowledge successful policy initiatives. President Tinubu’s push for state police reflects a long-standing commitment and continuous advocacy for the right approach, even during unpopular times. Supporting state police today is easier, especially considering the rising complexities of Nigeria’s security landscape, including terrorism, extensive banditry, and large-scale kidnappings.

Opposition to state police has frequently stemmed from political calculations that have dramatically backfired. It serves as a reminder that we should not oppose policies simply because we perceive them to benefit only others; the establishment of state police should have commenced over two decades ago, potentially starting with pilot implementations in select states across each geopolitical zone until fully adopted nationwide.

I had the unique opportunity to serve as a special adviser for the Alberta Government's Police Act Review. Some of my recommendations became law through the Police Amendment Act, given royal assent in December 2022. Therefore, I wish to share insights into policing derived from those experiences.

In federations, disparate layers of policing create the chance for residents to engage with law enforcement that is attuned to local dynamics. For context, Canada, with its population of approximately 41.5 million, boasts around 160 police services, including the national Royal Canadian Mounted Police, three provincial police services, and municipal police departments in cities like Toronto and Calgary. While challenges are evident, this model can provide valuable lessons for Nigeria.

The ongoing deliberation must prioritize the creation of a Police Act that can endure through time. Two pathways seem feasible concerning legislation governing state police: the National Assembly might enact a comprehensive Act applicable to all police services, or individual states could develop their own Police Acts. Considering Nigeria's unique context, a singular Act, derived through stakeholder collaboration and discussions, appears the most feasible and pragmatic.

Establishing state police allows for the application of advanced socio- scientific principles in crafting an institution aimed at serving present and future citizens without replicating the flaws of existing models.

Concerns regarding political interference in state police operations abound, particularly fears that governors may misuse these forces against political adversaries. Such issues, albeit valid, should not deter the advancement of state police. Instead, the new Police Act could incorporate measures that empower the Nigeria Police Force to intervene if a state police is infected by political misuse or ineptitude in managing criminal cases. For example, the FBI routinely engages in state or municipal police investigations within the United States facing accusations of misconduct.

An alternative approach could involve appointing the head of the state police by the State Assembly instead of allowing governors or justice commissioners to have unilateral control. Nominations could originate from the governor but would require endorsement from federal authorities based on the nominee's qualifications, paired with a requirement for support from 65 percent of the State Assembly votes. Additionally, provisions ensuring tenure security and specifying limited grounds for dismissal might help enhance accountability. Funding for state police should ideally come through legislative channels, removing governors' powers to withdraw financial support unilaterally for political reasons.

Many considerations must be carefully evaluated in shaping state police across Nigeria, including emphasizing gender diversity in leadership and the workforce, delineating the powers of state police, and clarifying its operational relationship with the Nigeria Police Force. Developing a well- resourced police service is essential for effective law enforcement. Thus, salaries and working conditions should be fair, just, and aligned with living standards in respective regions. Moreover, independent civilian oversight is critical for police accountability, warranting further discussion.

Ultimately, initiating a new police service presents a chance to implement innovative knowledge in socio-scientific methods, build a new institution, and avoid prior mistakes, fostering a service that can thrive for generations to come.