The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, has thrown his weight behind the push for state police, saying it will significantly improve security across the country.
Lawal made the comment on Wednesday while speaking as a guest on Arise News Townhall, a public affairs programme by Arise News Channel that brings together policymakers and experts to discuss national issues.
He said one of the main reasons insecurity has continued to grow in many states is because governors do not have direct control over security agencies operating in their states.
“The structure we have now ties the hands of governors,” Lawal explained. “We are called Chief Security Officers, but we don’t command the police. If state governments manage security in their areas, we can provide better funding, employ more officers, and respond faster when there is trouble.”
The governor also addressed concerns that state governors could abuse a state police system to harass political opponents. He said the fear is not supported by what is already happening on ground.
“Almost every state already has one form of local security outfit or the other. None of them have been used to oppress people,” he noted.
Lawal urged members of the National Assembly to include clear rules and checks in any law that creates state police. According to him, that will help prevent misuse and protect citizens’ rights.