IGP Egbetokun Rejects State Police, Gives Reasons

In a recent one-day dialogue on state policing, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) voiced strong opposition to the concept of state police, arguing that Nigeria is not yet ready for such a structure. The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, emphasized that the creation of state police could exacerbate ethnic tensions and lead to divided loyalties within states.

IGP Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Ben Okolo, expressed concerns about multiple command structures that could emerge from establishing state police. He pointed out that this fragmentation could lead to abuse of power by state governors, who might use state police forces for personal political gains, thereby undermining human rights and causing governance issues.

Funding and Structural Concerns

The IGP also highlighted funding issues, stating that many state governments might not have the financial capacity to support the type of policing necessary for effective law enforcement. He suggested that instead of state police, a more efficient approach would be to merge the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Federal Road Safety Commission into a new department within the Nigeria Police Force.

Recruitment and Budgetary Recommendations

To address the need for more personnel in the force, IGP Egbetokun recommended an annual recruitment drive to hire approximately 30,000 new police officers, aligning with the United Nations’ requirements for modern policing. Additionally, he urged for increased annual budgetary allocations to ensure the police force has the resources needed to meet the growing demands of security in the nation.

Details shortly…….