Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has cautioned the Federal Government against placing the funding of the proposed state police system under the control of state governors, warning that such an arrangement could undermine the independence and effectiveness of the security outfit.
The lawmaker representing Abia South Senatorial District said funds allocated to state police should be paid directly to an independent State Police Commission and protected by constitutional provisions to prevent political interference and abuse of power.
Speaking on the ongoing debate over the establishment of state police across the country, Abaribe stressed that financial autonomy is critical to the success of the proposed policing structure.
According to him, allowing governors to exercise direct control over state police funds could compromise professionalism and accountability, as those who control the finances may ultimately dictate the operations of the police.
“He who pays the piper dictates the tune,” the senator warned, emphasizing the need for safeguards that would ensure the operational independence of state police formations.
Abaribe also expressed concern over the funding implications of the proposed system, noting that inadequate resources could lead to undesirable consequences, including the proliferation of security checkpoints, particularly in the South-East where residents already face numerous roadblocks.
The senator acknowledged that he had previously opposed the idea of state police but said Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation now requires innovative and practical solutions.
He maintained that while state police may offer a viable response to rising insecurity, its effectiveness would depend largely on adequate funding, transparency, accountability, and freedom from political control.
Abaribe urged policymakers and stakeholders involved in the ongoing constitutional and security reforms to design a framework that guarantees the independence of state police institutions while ensuring they remain accountable to the law and the people.
The debate over the creation of state police has gained renewed momentum amid growing concerns over insecurity across various parts of the country, with proponents arguing that localized policing could enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response to crime. However, critics have continued to raise concerns about potential political misuse, making funding and oversight key issues in the national conversation.