In a recent statement, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed concern over the inadequacy of the current police force, numbering approximately 400,000, to adequately secure Nigeria’s population of over 200 million people.
The Deputy Speaker, Hon Benjamin Okezie Kalu, representing Abbas during a courtesy call by the association of Clerks of State Houses of Assembly, emphasised the need for state police to enhance internal security, citing the familiarity of local operators with the geographical terrain.
Abbas likened the call for state police to the constitutional amendments made by the 9th National Assembly, granting states the right to address issues like railway and power independently.
He acknowledged the diversity of perspectives across states and stressed the importance of constructive dialogue to find common ground for the benefit of all Nigerians.
The Speaker pointed out the challenges of a centralised policing system, highlighting the mismatch between officers’ training locations and their assigned regions.
Abbas argued that a state-based approach would ensure better policing, respecting local nuances and improving overall effectiveness.
Addressing the ongoing constitutional amendments, Abbas called for collaboration between the national parliament and state assemblies, emphasizing the crucial role of state legislatures in shaping the nation’s governance.
He recognized the need for synergy to achieve meaningful and lasting reforms, especially regarding issues like the autonomy of state legislatures and judiciaries.
Rukaiyatu Adamu Jalo, the chairman of the visiting delegation from the association of Clerks of State Houses of Assembly, expressed gratitude for the passage of the autonomy for state legislature and judiciary bill into law.
She sought collaboration with the House and urged the resolution of the non-implementation of the act in several states, appealing to the House leadership to engage with the Forum of State Speakers for a solution.
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