By Murtala Muhammad
The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, has described the proposed establishment of State Police as a major step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and addressing insecurity across the country.
Senator Barau Jibrin stated this during Hannu Da Yawa, a live Hausa programme on Radio Nigeria Kaduna, where he discussed the proposed constitutional amendment with callers from across Northern Nigeria.
He explained that the proposal, initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had undergone extensive legislative scrutiny, including public hearings held in the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory, with contributions from the Presidency, the National Assembly, security experts, governors, civil society organisations and members of the public.
Senator Barau who is also the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review said the proposed State Police system contains constitutional safeguards to prevent abuse of power and ensure accountability, while complementing the existing Nigeria Police Force rather than replacing it.
Senator Barau said State Police officers would be recruited from their respective communities to enhance intelligence gathering and improve responses to crimes such as banditry and kidnapping, particularly in areas most affected by insecurity.
He added that the proposed framework empowers the Federal Government to intervene where a State Police service is misused or where lives and property are threatened, while the Nigeria Police Force would continue to handle national security issues, including terrorism and cybercrime.
The Deputy Senate President also said the appointment of State Police Commandants would follow a transparent legal process designed to protect them from undue political interference, while appropriate funding mechanisms and operational standards would be developed as the constitutional amendment process progresses.
He expressed confidence that states Houses of Assembly would support the initiative and urged Nigerians to constructively participate in the ongoing constitutional review process aimed at improving security and protecting lives and property.
During the live two-hour phone-in programme, Senator Barau also responded to questions from callers on insecurity and other national issues.
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