The proposed State Police reform has sparked fresh debate after the Deputy National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, Prince Nweze Onu, warned that the initiative could be exploited for political purposes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Onu acknowledged that state police has long been proposed as a solution to Nigeria’s security challenges but expressed concern that the reform was being pursued without enough public consultation and safeguards.
He criticised what he described as the hurried passage of the bill, saying critical issues including accountability, funding, independence and oversight must receive wider national debate.
The NNPP chieftain warned that without strong constitutional protections, state police structures could be vulnerable to interference by state governments and potentially used against opposition figures and critics.
He referenced concerns surrounding some regional security outfits, including Amotekun and Ebubeagu, saying their operations have generated debates over accountability and professionalism.
Onu urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly to review existing security frameworks and ensure any state policing system includes transparent recruitment, proper training, independent oversight and penalties for abuse.
He stressed that security institutions must remain neutral and serve citizens regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion.
His comments come as debate continues over state police, with supporters arguing that decentralised policing would improve intelligence gathering and response to insecurity, while critics remain concerned about possible political interference.
