Momentum is building around Nigeria’s proposed state police structure, as Deputy President of the Senate, Barau I. Jibrin, reaffirmed that public trust, accountability, and safeguards against abuse will define the final framework.
Speaking in Abuja while receiving a high-level committee set up by the Nigeria Police Force, Barau signaled a more coordinated push between lawmakers and security authorities to rethink Nigeria’s policing architecture.
The committee, inaugurated on March 4, 2026, by Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, is mandated to design a practical and inclusive roadmap for the establishment of state police nationwide. Led by its chairman, Olu Ogunsakin, the team sought legislative backing to strengthen its proposals.
Barau, who also heads the Senate’s constitutional review process, emphasized that while decentralised policing offers a pathway to improved security, it must be carefully structured to reflect citizens’ concerns. He noted that fears raised during nationwide consultations—particularly around misuse and political interference—must be directly addressed.
“We are not just creating another institution; we are building a system that must earn the confidence of Nigerians,” he said, stressing that transparency and effective oversight would be non-negotiable.
He further highlighted the importance of public sensitisation, noting that widespread understanding and acceptance will be critical to the success of the reform.
The initiative aligns with the security priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and forms part of broader constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening grassroots security, improving response times, and enhancing community-based law enforcement.
With extensive stakeholder consultations already conducted across the six geopolitical zones, the engagement marks a significant step toward a more decentralised and responsive policing system.
As discussions advance, the collaboration between the National Assembly and the police signals a shift from debate to action—raising cautious optimism that long-standing calls for state police may finally translate into a workable and trusted reality.
State Police Plan Gains Traction as Barau Backs Safeguards, Public Trust
