Babatunji Wusu –
Nigeria is not ready for state police, according to Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Speaking at a one-day discussion on state policing, the head of police made the remark while being represented by AIG Ben Okolo.
In support of his claims, the IGP warned that certain state governors can misuse the state police’s privilege by utilizing them for political ends, which could result in the abuse of authority and violations of human rights.
He also emphasized the cost of forming a state police force, stating that the government might not have enough money to support it.
Egbetokun went on to say that the creation of state police might exacerbate ethnic conflict and cause a split in state allegiance.
Therefore, rather of establishing a state police, he suggested that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) combine to form a department inside the Nigeria Police Force.
The IGP further stated that in order for the force to fulfill UN standards for contemporary policing, it must increase its yearly funding allocation and hire roughly 30,000 new officers each year.
Details soon…