Tinubu’s State Police plan has safeguards against abuse — Barau.

Barau rallies Nigerians behind State Police reform.

The Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, Senator Barau I.

Jibrin, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s move to establish State Police as a masterstroke aimed at tackling insecurity and strengthening Nigeria’s security framework.
Speaking on Radio Nigeria Kaduna’s Hausa programme, Hannu Da Yawa, on Saturday, Barau said the proposed reform is a strategic initiative designed to improve policing across the country. He disclosed that the proposal had undergone extensive legislative scrutiny, including public hearings held across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory, with several safeguards incorporated to prevent abuse of State Police powers.
The Deputy Senate President explained that the State Police Bill, recently passed by the Senate, was initiated by President Tinubu following wide-ranging consultations involving the Presidency, the National Assembly, the Inspector-General of Police, retired police officers, security experts, governors, civil society organisations and members of the public. According to him, the bill responds to longstanding calls for constitutional amendments to allow states establish their own police services.
Barau said President Tinubu carefully considered public concerns over the possible misuse of State Police for political or ethnic interests, stressing that the proposed framework contains constitutional safeguards to prevent such abuse. He added that State Police would complement the Nigeria Police Force by deploying locally recruited personnel who understand their communities, terrain and security challenges, thereby improving the fight against banditry, kidnapping and other crimes.
Responding to questions from callers during the two-hour programme, Barau said northern Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from the initiative, describing it as a pathway to lasting peace in areas most affected by insecurity. He also explained that the President would retain constitutional powers to direct the Federal Police to take over where State Police are used for intimidation or actions that threaten lives and property.
He further clarified that the Federal Police would continue to handle national security matters such as terrorism and cybercrime, while State Police would focus on internal law enforcement and maintaining public order. He added that State Police Commandants would be appointed through a rigorous process and protected by law from undue political interference.
The Deputy Senate President acknowledged concerns over funding and operational capacity, assuring Nigerians that appropriate financial frameworks and operational standards would be developed as the constitutional amendment process and enabling legislation progress. He expressed confidence that state Houses of Assembly would support the initiative and urged Nigerians to embrace the reform as a balanced and consultative step towards lasting peace and improved security. During the programme, Barau also responded to questions on insecurity and other national issues.

Signed:
Ismail Mudashir
Special Adviser to the Deputy President of the Senate on Media and Publicity