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Seeks constitutional safeguards
The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has cautioned against the possible abuse of state police by governors, insisting that any constitutional framework establishing state policing must contain strong safeguards to prevent political intimidation and protect citizens’ rights.
Speaking as a panelist at the “Building a National Consensus for State Police and National Security” conference organised by ARISE News and THISDAY in Abuja, the senator said decentralising policing should not create another layer of political control capable of undermining democracy and the rule of law.
She warned that without constitutional safeguards and institutional independence, state police could become a tool for victimising political opponents and intimidating ordinary citizens.
“State police should never become an instrument of political oppression or executive intimidation. We must build a policing system that serves the people, protects democracy and remains accountable to the rule of law,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan argued that beyond constitutional provisions, sustainable funding would determine the success or failure of any state police structure.
She said the federal government must develop a transparent and sustainable funding mechanism to guarantee operational efficiency, intelligence gathering, personnel welfare, training, and modern security infrastructure across the states.
“Funding is one of the most important aspects the federal government must address. Without adequate and sustainable financing, state police will struggle to deliver on their constitutional responsibilities,” she stated.
The senator also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for measures taken to strengthen national security, while praising the Inspector-General of Police for what she described as prompt responses to emerging security challenges across the country.
According to her, the responsiveness of the police leadership has helped to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture.
“I commend Mr President and the current Inspector-General of Police for their prompt responses and decisive actions on security issues. Such responsiveness strengthens public confidence and reinforces our collective commitment to securing Nigeria,” she added.
