The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has dismissed claims that the Nigeria Police Force is responsible for the delay in establishing state police across the country.
Speaking through the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South East, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, during a stakeholders’ security meeting held in Awka on Tuesday, the police chief explained that the creation of state police is a constitutional matter that rests entirely with the National Assembly and the state Houses of Assembly.
According to him, while the Nigeria Police Force supports the establishment of state police and believes it would strengthen efforts to combat crime, the process can only move forward through constitutional amendments.
He explained that the National Assembly must first amend the law establishing the Nigeria Police Force before the proposal can become law. He added that after such an amendment, at least two thirds of the state Houses of Assembly must also approve it before the process can be completed.
Disu appealed to Nigerians, especially security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community representatives, civil society groups and members of the business community, to remain patient as lawmakers continue to work on the legal framework required for state police.
He also stressed the importance of stronger cooperation between the police and the public, noting that security agencies cannot tackle crime alone. He encouraged residents to provide timely and credible information about suspected criminal activities to enable swift intervention.
The police chief maintained that greater collaboration at the grassroots remains essential to improving security across the country.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, described security as the foundation of development in every society. He said effective crime prevention depends on trust, cooperation and regular engagement between security agencies and members of the public.
According to him, the partnership between the police and stakeholders has contributed significantly to the reduction of crime in Anambra State. He urged all parties to sustain the existing collaboration to strengthen security efforts.
Some stakeholders at the meeting commended the Anambra State Government and the State House of Assembly for establishing the local vigilance groups known as Udogachi and Agunechemba, saying the initiative has strengthened support for the police in tackling crime.
They also appealed to the Federal Government to accelerate the process of establishing state police while calling for better equipment, improved training and enhanced welfare packages for police officers and members of local vigilance groups to boost security nationwide.
Zoyols News reports that the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration among security agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders in addressing security challenges across the country.
