NEC Pushes for State Police: Kwara, Kebbi, Adamawa Face Deadline

The National Economic Council (NEC) has intensified efforts toward establishing state police in Nigeria, setting a one-week deadline for Kwara, Kebbi, and Adamawa states to submit their reports on the matter.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri announced the decision on Thursday while addressing journalists after the NEC meeting chaired by Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the State House in Abuja.

Diri emphasized the importance of adhering to the timeline, warning that NEC would “take appropriate decisions” should the states fail to comply.

The push for state police has gained momentum as stakeholders explore ways to decentralize the country’s policing structure to address rising insecurity.

In February, the federal government established a committee to evaluate the creation of state police, a move supported by President Bola Tinubu and state governors.

Minister of Information Mohammed Idris previously stated that the framework for decentralization was agreed upon, with subsequent meetings planned to ensure its feasibility.

Despite the urgency, some states have lagged in their response. In March, NEC reported that 20 states had yet to submit their recommendations, prompting a warning in September that decisions could be imposed on non-compliant states.

Thursday’s ultimatum marks a more aggressive stance by NEC, signaling its commitment to advancing the discourse on state policing.

The establishment of state police is seen by many as a solution to localized security challenges, allowing states to tackle crime and enforce laws effectively within their jurisdictions.

Proponents argue that a decentralized system would improve accountability and responsiveness, while critics caution against potential misuse of power by state governments.

As Kwara, Kebbi, and Adamawa face their one-week deadline, the broader conversation on state policing remains critical to Nigeria’s security architecture.

The outcome of this initiative could redefine the nation’s approach to law enforcement and governance.