The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has thrown its support behind the proposed establishment of state police, citing the prevalent insecurity situation in the nation as the primary motivation.
RULAAC emphasized that a significant portion of police funding has traditionally fallen under the responsibility of state governors, while the federal government’s contributions have been viewed as supplementary. This, according to RULAAC, underscores the necessity for states to take charge of policing within their jurisdictions.
However, RULAAC stressed the importance of the federal government’s role in facilitating the establishment of state police, emphasizing the need for autonomy in their operations. This sentiment was echoed in a statement issued by RULAAC’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, on Friday.
In recent developments, President Bola Tinubu and state governors reached a consensus on the establishment of state police during a meeting on Thursday. Minister of Information and National Orientation, while briefing State House correspondents after an emergency session convened by the President, disclosed this decision.
Responding to these developments, RULAAC highlighted the challenges faced by the Nigerian police force, including over-centralization, inadequate resources, and political interference, leading to concerns about public safety.
While acknowledging the apprehensions expressed by some Nigerians regarding the potential abuse of power by state governors in implementing state police, RULAAC underscored the need for decentralization in policing to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.
RULAAC advocated for the establishment of state police as one form of decentralization, emphasizing the importance of addressing genuine concerns and ensuring proper modalities are in place before its implementation.
Furthermore, RULAAC suggested devolving policing authority and resources to lower levels of command, allowing for greater autonomy in decision-making and initiative-taking. This approach, according to RULAAC, would enhance police effectiveness and foster community trust and partnership.
In conclusion, RULAAC reiterated the importance of community policing as a long-term solution to addressing police ineffectiveness and fostering democratic policing practices.