Eventually, when the National Assembly federalizes the Nigeria Police Force and devolves powers to States that wish to establish...
Eventually, when the National Assembly federalizes the Nigeria Police Force and devolves powers to States that wish to establish their own police forces or services—as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his roadmap on security emergency of 20 November 2025—the State Police are expected to be vested with powers to enforce State criminal laws.
The State Police will be empowered to:
- Enforce highway and traffic regulations, including patrolling major highways and interstates.
- Respond to road accidents and oversee commercial trucking safety.
- Conduct criminal investigations into murder, organized crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime, public corruption, and other offenses prohibited under State laws.
One of the major concerns raised by proponents of federalization is the fear that Governors may politicize the police and use them to victimize perceived political enemies, opponents, and detractors.
Establishment of a Regulatory and Oversight Body:
To address this concern, it is proposed under the framework of Safeguarding State Policing: Proposal for a Regulatory and Oversight Commission that a State Police Regulatory and Oversight Commission be established. This body shall serve as the primary regulator, with full authority to monitor, investigate, and check any excesses of the State Police.
Functions of the Commission:
The Commission shall be responsible for:
1. Recruitment of senior police officers.
2. Promotion of police officers.
3. Discipline of police officers, including handling complaints and enforcing sanctions where necessary.
Independence from Executive Influence:
To eliminate undue control or influence by State Governors, the membership of the Commission shall be drawn from civil society. The power to appoint members of the Commission shall vest in the Chief Judges of the States, subject to confirmation by the respective State Houses of Assembly.
Safeguards Against Partisan Appointments:
To ensure neutrality and independence, a law shall provide that:
- Any person who has been a member of a political party registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission within the five years preceding their appointment, or
- Any person who is currently a card-carrying member of a political party, shall not be eligible for appointment into the Commission.
Conclusion:
The establishment of a State Police Regulatory and Oversight Commission, as outlined in Safeguarding State Policing: Proposal for a Regulatory and Oversight Commission, will serve as a safeguard against abuse of power, ensure professionalism, and strengthen public trust in State policing. By insulating the Commission from partisan influence, Nigeria can achieve a balance between decentralization of policing powers and accountability in law enforcement.
@ Okoi Obono-Obla
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