AS discussions are ongoing on whether or not, State Police should be established, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has warned that as a country, we must build a security architecture that is robust, transparent, and accountable and if created, state police departments must be free from the shackles of politics, religious extremism, tribalism, and ethnicism.
Akpabio has said that as there are calls for the coming on board of State Police, it has become imperative that Nigeria draws inspiration from the United States of America, USA against the backdrop that as a nation it has successfully implemented a system of state and federal policing.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja at a one day national dialogue on Security and State Police organised by the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate said that Nigeria should learn from the experiences of the USA and adapt their models to suit Nigeria’s unique socio-political context, just as he said that we should ensure that our state police forces work in harmony with their federal counterparts, collaborating to fight crime.
Akpabio said, “Today, we gather here not just as politicians, lawmakers, technocrats or bureaucrats, but as guardians of our great nation, holders of our nation’s sacred trust, and protectors of our posterity. With fidelity to these roles, we gather here today to discuss a matter of utmost importance – the security and safety of our beloved country. We gather here today to deliberate on the way forward, to explore new horizons, and to chart a path towards a brighter, greater and safer future for all Nigerians.
“In the face of insecurity, adversity and uncertainty, it is our duty to see above the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. It is our duty to be the architects of change, the catalysts for progress, and the guardians of hope. Today, we stand at a crossroad of history, where the decisions we make will shape the destiny of our nation. Today, we are conferred with the power to transform our security architecture and create a Nigeria where every citizen feels safe and protected, regardless of his or her status, religion, tribe, location or background.
“The concept of state police has been a topic of debate for many years. It is a complex issue with no easy answers. But today, courtesy of the House of Representatives, we have the opportunity to engage in a national dialogue, to listen to the voices of our fellow citizens, and to forge a path towards a more secure Nigeria. Let us seize this opportunity with open hearts and open minds. Let us listen to one another, learn from one another, and work together to find a common ground.
“In working out modalities for the state police and the security of our nation, we must not forget that security is not a privilege, but a fundamental right of every Nigerian. It is our duty to ensure that this right is upheld, that justice is served, and that the rule of law prevails. We must build a security architecture that is robust, transparent, and accountable. If we are to set up state police departments, we must ensure that they are free from the shackles of politics, religious extremism, tribalism, and ethnicism. We must empower them to serve and protect, without fear or favour.
“As we consider this proposition, let us draw inspiration from the United States of America, a nation that has successfully implemented a system of state and federal policing. Let us learn from their experiences and adapt their models to suit our unique socio-political context. Let us ensure that our state police forces work in harmony with their federal counterparts, collaborating to fight crime, preserve peace, and safeguard our democracy. In the USA, the FBI, the federal police body enforces federal laws and the state police departments enforce state laws. The FBI also investigates inter-state crimes. We must draw the lines because to have functional state police we must have a strong federal police.
“But let us never forget that the power of the state police should never be used as a tool of oppression or witch-hunting. Let us ensure that political powers do not manipulate the state police to silence dissent or target their enemies. Let us ensure that the influential do not exert undue influence over the state police, and that justice is blind to wealth, power, politics, or status. Let us build a system that is fair, just, and equitable for all.
“Therefore, in this hallowed hall, let us embrace this dialogue as an opportunity for unity, understanding, and collaboration. Let us rise above our differences and work towards a common goal – a safer and more secure Nigeria. Let us use our collective efforts to build a nation that can withstand the challenges that lie ahead, a nation that can combat the monster of insecurity that currently threatens our collective well-being.
“I dare to believe that we, gathered here, under the leadership of Mr. President, have what it takes to overcome the challenges that lie before us and build a nation that is strong, united, and secure.
“The presence of our esteemed President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in this event underscores its importance, and government’s commitment to reform and strengthen the security architecture of our country. It is always a pleasure to welcome him to any National Assembly event, not only because he is such an inspirational leader, but also because he is an alumnus of the National Assembly.”
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