Nigeria's South-west security groups back state police bill, seek partnership with FG

Security organizations in Nigeria's South-west region have lauded the National Assembly's recent passage of a bill to establish state police forces. They view this legislative development as a crucial advancement in addressing the nation's escalating insecurity through localized policing efforts.

The Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG) and the Oodua Unity Group (OUG), in a joint statement following their meeting, emphasized that the success of the proposed state police system hinges on the quality of cooperation between government bodies and existing community-based security outfits. The groups reiterated that empowering states to directly manage security challenges would lead to faster and more targeted responses.

While awaiting the implementation of state police, the security groups urged federal and state authorities to enhance collaboration with private and community security organizations. They specifically called for formal engagement with the SSSG and OUG, arguing that grassroots structures possess vital local intelligence for improved data collection and rapid response to criminal activities. The SSSG, a coalition of major Yoruba security and socio-cultural organizations, has structures across local government areas in the South-west.

The statement also clarified the constitutional role of the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, noting that his intervention in security operations within a state requires the governor's request. Unauthorized involvement could violate Nigerian laws and complicate security efforts. The groups also appealed to the media and the public to avoid spreading misinformation regarding security incidents, warning against exaggerated or inaccurate reporting.

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Any unauthorised involvement by the Aare Ona Kakanfo could contravene Nigerian laws and state security architecture, and may complicate efforts to restore order.