TMSG: Tinubu’s Position on State Police Reflects Consistency in Tackling Insecurity

TMSG: Tinubu’s Position on State Police Reflects Consistency in Tackling Insecurity

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed affirmation of state policing as a clear demonstration of policy consistency and commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Nwankpa, and Secretary, Dapo Okubanjo, the group noted that despite delays in the constitutional process, it is increasingly evident that the Tinubu administration remains determined to institutionalise state police across the country.

The group stated:

“We are aware that President Tinubu’s pledge on the establishment of state police during the Iftar meeting with state governors marks at least the third time within a year that he has reiterated his commitment to a decentralised policing system.

“When President Tinubu first mooted the idea at an exploratory meeting with governors in February 2024, it aligned with his long-standing belief that decentralised policing is a viable solution to Nigeria’s persistent security challenges. We recall that his predecessor, the late Muhammadu Buhari, had ruled out the option due to concerns about potential abuse by state governors.

“By reaffirming his stance once again, the President has made it clear that the constitutional amendment process required to establish state police is ongoing at the National Assembly of Nigeria, even if detailed discussions remain underway.”

TMSG expressed strong support for the proposed decentralised structure, describing state police as a bottom-up approach to security that empowers states and communities to take ownership of safeguarding their territories.

According to the group, devolving policing responsibilities aligns with the widely embraced whole-of-government strategy, ensuring that local communities become integral stakeholders in national security management.

While acknowledging concerns about possible abuse, TMSG said it is encouraged by safeguards being considered by lawmakers, particularly the inclusion of a strengthened National Police Council framework in the proposed legislation.

Under the proposed structure, the federal police would retain jurisdiction over federal crimes, national security matters, and inter-state issues, while the National Police Council would provide oversight, issue operational guidelines to state police formations, and recommend the removal of erring police chiefs when necessary.

The group urged the federal legislature to expedite the constitutional amendment process, noting that it must still secure approval from state assemblies before becoming law.

“Like all Nigerians, we eagerly await the completion of this constitutional process to pave the way for a decentralised police system that can more effectively address insecurity across the country,” the statement concluded.

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