Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, emphasized the potential of state police to address Nigeria’s current security challenges, provided that stringent control mechanisms are in place. Speaking at the University of Ilorin’s Department of Political Science, alongside the Institute of Legislative Studies, he delivered a lecture titled ‘Constitutional Amendment and Political Dynamics of State Policing in Nigeria’.
Senator Bamidele argued that decentralizing security affairs is crucial, proposing state policing as a viable alternative to the centralized police force, which he criticized for inadequately managing national security issues. However, he acknowledged the complexities involved, particularly concerning the potential for abuse of power by state governors using state police to suppress opposition or violate rights.
To address these concerns, Senator Bamidele stressed the importance of robust checks and balances through constitutional amendments. He advocated for federal oversight, independent review boards, and clear legislative frameworks to prevent misuse of state police powers. He also highlighted the economic challenges, urging states to commit adequate resources for training, equipping, and compensating police personnel, with potential federal support to ensure financial feasibility across all states.
The senator emphasized that achieving consensus among federal, state, and local governments, along with active involvement of civil society, traditional leaders, and the public, is essential for transparent and inclusive transition towards state policing. He underscored the necessity of public education to garner support and communicate the benefits of state policing, such as improved security and community relations.
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In conclusion, Senator Bamidele portrayed the introduction of state policing through constitutional amendment as a transformative step in Nigeria’s security landscape. He expressed confidence that with careful planning, strong safeguards, and commitment to democratic principles, Nigeria can establish a more responsive, accountable, and effective policing system.
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In his welcome address, Dr. Adebola Bakare, the acting Head of Department of Political Science at the University of Ilorin, explained that the lecture aimed to stimulate further discourse on state policing due to divergent opinions among Nigerians. He announced plans for a subsequent roundtable involving stakeholders to deliberate on the future of policing in Nigeria.
