By Olugbenga Salami
The Labour Party has applauded the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, for passing the State Police Bill transmitted by President Bola Tinubu, calling it a critical move to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security.
In a statement Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa said the Bill addresses years of public demand for a policing structure that is more effective and responsive to the country’s escalating security threats.
“For years, Nigerians across all regions have clamoured for a more effective and responsive policing architecture capable of addressing the growing and increasingly complex security challenges confronting the nation.
“The passage of this Bill therefore represents a significant step towards strengthening internal security and bringing law enforcement closer to the people,” Asogwa stated.
The party acknowledged concerns over potential misuse of state police, referencing past issues with State Independent Electoral Commissions and allegations of undue influence by some governors.
But it insisted that Nigeria’s present security realities outweigh those risks and make the case for decentralised policing compelling.
Labour Party expressed confidence in the Bill’s constitutional safeguards, specifically Section 17, which it said provides clear mechanisms to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
“These safeguards, if faithfully implemented, should serve as effective checks against arbitrary control or misuse of the system by any state executive,” Asogwa noted.
He added that while “no policing model is perfect,” the limitations of the current centralised arrangement demand new approaches to improve safety for citizens.
With the Bill now before State Houses of Assembly for concurrence ahead of presidential assent, the Labour Party urged governors and state lawmakers across the 36 states to prioritise national interest over partisanship.
“The Labour Party believes that with proper oversight, transparency and adherence to constitutional provisions, state policing can become a vital instrument for combating crime, enhancing community security and strengthening the federation,” the statement concluded.
