Deputy Speaker backs state police, faults Abuja-centred policing

By Lawrence Agbo

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has backed the establishment of state police, arguing that Nigeria’s centralised policing structure has failed to respond effectively to the country’s security challenges.

Speaking on the need for police reform on ARISE News, Kalu said obsolete laws that concentrate police authorisation in Abuja have hindered timely responses to insecurity, especially in communities far from the Federal Capital Territory.

“For every government, the law places the protection of lives and property at the top of its priorities. The Tinubu administration has put security at the top of its agenda,” he said.

According to the Deputy Speaker, effective policing requires officers who are closer to the people and familiar with the local terrain.

“Proximity is key in policing. If the authorisation point is in Abuja and incidents are happening far from Abuja, by the time authorisation comes it may be too late,” Kalu stated.

He added that the National Assembly recognises the need for a policing system that allows faster responses to security threats across the country.

“As a parliament, we also recognise that having a police force that is close to the people and familiar with the local terrain and environment will be more effective,” he said.

Kalu’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and the National Assembly to establish the legal framework for the creation of state police as part of broader reforms aimed at tackling insecurity nationwide.