Speaking on Radio Nigeria Kaduna’s Hausa programme Hannu Da Yawa, Barau described President Bola Tinubu’s push for state police as a “masterstroke” to address security challenges.
He said the proposal underwent public hearings across all six geopolitical zones and the FCT, with input from security experts, governors, civil society, and the public.
Barau explained that the framework provides for a dual policing system where state police would complement the Nigeria Police Force, focusing on internal security and public order, while the NPF retains responsibility for terrorism, cybercrime, and national security.
He added that state police commandants would be protected from political interference and that the president could direct federal police to take over if state forces are used for intimidation or threaten lives and property.
Key Points:
Communities may see faster response times as local recruits know terrain and criminals.
Federal oversight mechanism aims to prevent political abuse by state governors.
Northern states, worst-hit by banditry, stand to benefit significantly from the reform.
Safeguards signal executive commitment to balancing decentralisation with federal control.
Timing matters as security deterioration pressures swift constitutional amendment.
State houses of assembly will now determine the proposal’s fate, while funding and operational frameworks remain key implementation hurdles.
