The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has dismissed claims that the Nigeria Police Force is responsible for delays in the establishment of state police across the country.
Represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-East, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, the IGP made the clarification during a security stakeholders’ meeting held in Awka, Anambra State.
Disu explained that the creation of state police is a constitutional matter that falls within the responsibilities of the National Assembly and state legislatures, rather than the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, any move to establish state police requires constitutional amendments by the National Assembly, followed by approval from at least two-thirds of the state Houses of Assembly before it can become law.
He urged Nigerians and relevant stakeholders to remain patient, noting that lawmakers are already working on the legislative processes necessary to make state policing a reality.
The police chief stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities, saying effective security can only be achieved through collective efforts.
He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups, civil society organisations, business leaders and residents to provide timely and credible information about criminal activities to aid law enforcement operations.
Disu noted that security agencies alone cannot successfully tackle crime without active support from members of the public.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, described security as a vital foundation for development and social stability.
He said improved cooperation between the police and stakeholders has contributed significantly to reducing crime levels in the state and called for sustained partnerships to strengthen public safety.
Several stakeholders at the meeting praised the Anambra State Government and the State House of Assembly for establishing local security outfits, including Udogachi and Agunechemba, to support crime prevention efforts.
They also appealed to the Federal Government to accelerate the process of creating state police, arguing that decentralised policing would improve security management at the grassroots level.
The stakeholders further advocated better funding, equipment, training and welfare packages for both police officers and local vigilante groups to enhance their effectiveness in combating crime.
