The recent incidents of kidnapping in Ejiba and Osara in Kogi State have sparked concern and outrage, prompting Senator Sunday Karimi to express his sympathy for the victims and call for a review of the country’s security architecture. The attacks at the Confluence University of Science and Technology and Ejiba Central Market have highlighted the need for improved security measures to protect residents and students in the affected communities.
Senator Karimi commended Governor Usman Ododo for the efforts made by the state government to boost community policing initiatives. However, he emphasized the importance of establishing state police to enhance security at the local level. He revealed that a bill to allow the establishment of state policing is in the works in the National Assembly, seeking to amend the Constitution to empower states to establish their own police forces.
The proposed state police would operate under the guidelines of the National Police Council and complement the efforts of the federal police in enforcing criminal laws. This model is inspired by federal systems of government in countries like Canada, India, and the United States, where state and federal law enforcement agencies work together to maintain public safety.
Senator Karimi highlighted the benefits of having state police, such as their ability to effectively investigate and prosecute state offenses like kidnapping. By allowing states to establish their own police forces, the aim is to strengthen security measures at the grassroots level and ensure a more coordinated approach to combating crime.
The incidents in Ejiba and Osara serve as a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms in Nigeria. Establishing state police could be a crucial step towards improving law enforcement capabilities and protecting communities from criminal activities.