By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has assured Nigerians that the National Assembly is addressing all concerns regarding the establishment of state police. 

During the constitution review, he emphasized that the legislature was working to create a robust, reliable framework. This commitment reflects a high priority on enhancing national security through systematic reform.

Jibrin gave this assurance in Abuja while meeting with the Police Steering Committee, led by Chairman Olu Ogunsakin and inaugurated by IGP Olatunji Disu. The panel briefed Jibrin on their progress in developing modalities for the new policing system.

The committee sought the Senate’s expert input to ensure their final report is both comprehensive and legally sound.

As Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Jibrin praised the IGP for aligning with the “Renewed Hope Agenda.” However, he tasked the panel with overcoming critical hurdles related to accountability and public trust. He stressed that any new structure must guarantee public safety while preventing political or institutional abuse.

During zonal public hearings, citizens expressed fears that state governors might misuse local police to suppress political opposition. Other concerns included a lack of operational independence and potential friction between federal and state security agencies.

Jibrin acknowledged these reservations, insisting that the system must be designed to allay such anxieties.

Logistical hurdles, such as funding constraints and recruitment standards, remain major points of debate among stakeholders. Many question whether states can financially sustain their own forces or if ethnic biases might influence local operations.

Consequently, the Senate is pushing for strict constitutional safeguards to ensure state police complement the federal structure.

A primary bill is currently before the committee to amend the 1999 Constitution to officially permit state and community policing. This move aims to enhance local law enforcement through a structured legal framework. To ensure inclusivity, the Senate has already conducted public hearings across all six geopolitical zones to gather nationwide input.

Jibrin urged the committee to prioritize accountability measures and launch a nationwide public enlightenment campaign. He noted that building trust is essential for the successful implementation of the proposed system. Through this legislative rigour, the National Assembly aims to deliver a policing model that inspires national confidence.