A bill sponsored by 13 members of the House of Representatives aimed at addressing the prevailing insecurity in the country, has gained significant support from the majority of lawmakers.

This support has overridden concerns about potential political victimization by state governors.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and 36 state governors had previously convened to discuss state police as a viable solution to the prevalent security challenges, including issues like kidnapping and banditry. 

The topic of state police, a contentious issue since the Seventh National Assembly, is now making progress in the amendment phase.

Governors affiliated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have emphasised their commitment to state policing as a crucial step in improving the country’s deteriorating security situation. They have warned that Nigeria could be heading towards a situation reminiscent of Venezuela.

Various regional socio-political organisations, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, and the Northern Elders’ Forum, have consistently advocated for the implementation of state police as a viable solution to the escalating security challenges faced by the nation.

The South-West geopolitical zone has already established Amotekun, while the South-East has created its own state-owned security outfit called Ebube Agu. Additionally, the Benue Guards has been actively operating in Benue State in the North Central region. States like Katsina, Zamfara, and other areas prone to banditry have also introduced similar state-established security initiatives.

Despite these efforts, the state-established security initiatives have proven ineffective due to a lack of support from the Federal Government or the Presidency. States are persistently seeking permission for groups like Amotekun and Ebube Agu to be authorized to carry assault rifles, such as AK-47s, to effectively combat armed attackers.