The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the four recalcitrant states yet to declare their position on the establishment of State Police, warning that failure to comply by September 9, 2024, will result in their acquiescence to the eventual decision.
At its meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, NEC directed the laggard states to submit their stance by Monday, emphasizing that no further extensions would be granted.
Briefing journalists, Acting Governor of Oyo State Bayo Lawal revealed that 32 states have already submitted their reports, with the majority endorsing the creation of State Police to address Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.
The NEC’s directive follows a consensus reached by President Bola Tinubu and the 36 state governors in mid-February 2024 to establish State Police as a means to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes.
This agreement marked a significant milestone in the quest for state police, with proponents arguing that it would enable states to respond effectively to unique security threats.
While the proposal has garnered significant support, critics have raised concerns about funding and potential political manipulation by state governors.
Some argue that state police could become tools for political oppression, while others worry about the financial burden on states. Despite these concerns, the majority of states have endorsed the creation of State Police, paving the way for constitutional amendments to facilitate its establishment.
As the deadline approaches, the four states yet to declare their stance face mounting pressure to make their position known, shaping the future of state police in Nigeria.
The NEC’s decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country’s security architecture, and the remaining states must now decide whether to embrace this new approach to policing or accept the eventual decision.
