Barau Describes State Police Initiative as Tinubu’s Masterstroke Against Insecurity

The Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, has described President Bola Tinubu’s bid to establish State Police as a strategic reform aimed at tackling insecurity and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

Barau, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, stated this during Hannu Da Yawa, a live Hausa programme on Radio Nigeria Kaduna on Saturday. He said the proposed State Police system would complement the Nigeria Police Force by enhancing grassroots policing through officers recruited from local communities.

According to him, the State Police Bill, recently passed by the Senate, followed extensive consultations involving the Presidency, the National Assembly, the Inspector-General of Police, retired police officers, security experts, governors, civil society organisations and members of the public. He added that public hearings were also conducted across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory.

The Deputy Senate President said the proposed constitutional amendment contains safeguards to prevent abuse of State Police powers, noting that the President would retain constitutional authority to direct the Federal Police to intervene where any state police service is used to intimidate citizens or threaten lives and property.

He explained that while the Federal Police would continue to handle national security issues such as terrorism, cybercrime and other federal offences, State Police would focus on maintaining law and order within their respective states. He added that commandants of the proposed State Police would be appointed through a transparent legal process designed to protect them from undue political interference.

Barau acknowledged concerns over funding and operational capacity but expressed confidence that adequate financial and institutional frameworks would be put in place as the constitutional amendment process progresses. He urged Nigerians to support the initiative, describing it as a balanced and consultative reform capable of bringing policing closer to the people and enhancing the protection of lives and property.

The lawmaker also used the programme to respond to questions from listeners across Northern Nigeria on insecurity and other national issues.