Senator Ayodele Arise of the APC has urged President Bola Tinubu to work with state governors to secure support for the creation of state police, aiming to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity. He emphasized the benefits of local policing for intelligence and community security during an Arise TV live interview.

Arise explained that amending Section 214 of the Constitution to move policing to the Concurrent List would allow both federal and state police to operate, stressing the need for public awareness and state ratification to ensure smooth implementation. He noted that security challenges, including terrorism and banditry, make the creation of state police urgent.

The senator reassured that checks and balances, such as judicial oversight and a dedicated commission, could prevent abuse of state police by governors against opposition groups. He also highlighted the use of CCTV and human rights mechanisms to ensure accountability and protect citizens’ rights.

Arise expressed confidence that with the ruling party controlling most states and majorities in the National Assembly, the bill could pass, enabling training, personnel deployment, and coordination between federal and state police for improved security across Nigeria.