State Police Emerges as IGP Submits Plan to Senate

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has presented a detailed framework aimed at establishing state police to Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate. This initiative is part of broader efforts to decentralize policing in Nigeria.

The presentation took place on Thursday at Jibrin’s office within the National Assembly in Abuja.

Barau Jibrin, who chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, received the framework, which spans 75 pages.

Professor Olu Ogunsakin, the head of the committee established by the Nigeria Police Force to explore the modalities for implementing state police, submitted the document on behalf of the Inspector-General.

Titled “A Comprehensive Framework for the Establishment, Governance and Coordination of Federal and State Police,” the report outlines the proposed structure and operations of state policing in the country.

The IGP noted that the document reflects extensive consultations, professional insights, and strategic recommendations, taking into account the operational, legal, and administrative implications of creating state police.

“It is our expectation that the contents of this report will meaningfully contribute to ongoing deliberations and assist in shaping informed, balanced, and pragmatic decisions on this critical aspect of national security architecture,” he said.

He added that the report has been formally submitted to the Senate Committee as the Nigeria Police Force’s contribution to the constitutional review process.

In response, Senator Barau commended the IGP for his proactive approach, noting that the initiative aligns with the security agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He assured that the committee would thoroughly examine the framework alongside other submissions as part of efforts to review the nation’s 1999 Constitution.