16 governors endorse state police, await constitutional changes

Sixteen state governors have expressed support for establishing state police and recommended constitutional changes to enable this initiative.

Stanley Nkwocha, Special Adviser to the Vice President on Media and Communications, disclosed this development in a statement titled ‘NEC endorses take-off of $617 million i-DICE programme across states.’

Stanley Nkwocha, Special Adviser to the Vice President on Media and Communications, shared this news in a statement titled ‘NEC endorses take-off of $617 million i-DICE programme across states.’

While 16 states have submitted reports backing state police, the NEC awaits reports from 20 other states. NEC, composed of the 36 state governors, the Central Bank Governor, and other officials, meets monthly to advise on economic matters.

During the recent NEC session, discussions focused on state submissions regarding the state policing initiative. The Secretary to NEC, Mr. Nebeolisa Anako, presented reports from 16 supportive states, while 20 states are yet to submit theirs.

The specific states supporting the proposal were not disclosed, with Nkwocha indicating that the total number will be revealed in the next NEC meeting as compilation continues.

This development follows a resolution by the federal and state governments on February 16, 2024, to explore modalities for creating state police in response to security challenges.

Advocates believe state police would enhance law enforcement effectiveness and local control over security matters. However, critics express concerns about potential abuses of power, fearing it could exacerbate regional tensions and undermine national unity.