The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and former President Goodluck Jonathan have expressed differing opinions regarding the establishment of state police in Nigeria.
During a national dialogue organized by the House of Representatives in Abuja, with the theme “Pathways to Peace: Reimagining Policing in Nigeria,” the IGP, represented by Ben Okolo, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, argued against the establishment of state-controlled police. He cited challenges such as inadequate manpower, operational equipment, and potential conflicts of jurisdiction and abuse by state governors.
However, former President Jonathan emphasized the necessity of state police in addressing the escalating rates of kidnappings and violent crimes. He emphasized that the issue of state police is non-negotiable given the prevailing security challenges in the country.
Jonathan also highlighted the need for electoral reforms, stating that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be revamped to ensure free and fair elections.
He urged the National Assembly to review the use of police during elections to prevent their manipulation for political gain.
The divergence in opinions between the IGP and Jonathan underscores the complexities surrounding the establishment of state police in Nigeria and the broader need for comprehensive reforms in the country’s security and electoral systems.