Adams Abuh, a former Assistant Director with the Department of State Services (DSS), urges the 20 governors who are yet to endorse the formation of state police to expedite their decision-making process.
Abuh, addressing viewers on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief segment, emphasized the pressing need for federal and state governments to swiftly address the rising security concerns, including banditry and kidnapping.
He also pointed out the deficiency in resources for security agents in Nigeria, hampering their ability to respond swiftly to emergency situations.
He highlighted that the Nigeria Police Force is facing a shortage of personnel, coupled with a fleet of vehicles that are out of service, logistical obstacles, inadequate financial resources, and insufficient salaries, among other challenges.
He highlighted that these factors are accountable for the inadequate response time of security agencies to distress calls.
Abuh said: “There are still so many things that have been left undone before we even get to the issue of the citizens carrying arms to protect themselves.
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“We have been discussing about state police. A lot of open spaces that have not been policed properly in our country still exist. And there has been unanimous calls over the years for state police. Why have we not taken advantage of that option? And the earlier we do it, the better.
“I am aware that while the National Assembly and even the government is ready, just a few states are ready to agree to state police. The earlier they agree to do it the better.”
The discourse on the implementation of state police has been gaining traction in recent weeks, with various governors and regional socio-political groups such as Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum advocating for its adoption as a means to address the escalating challenges of kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities.
As of now, there are state-operated security organizations in approximately 23 states, featuring initiatives like the Civilian Joint Task Force in Borno State, the Amotekun Corps in the South-West geopolitical zone, the Benue Guards in the North Central State, the Community Protection Guards in Zamfara, the Community Watch Corps in Katsina, the Neighbourhood Watch in Plateau, along with state-endorsed vigilante groups in Niger and Bauchi, among other entities.