Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has declared that the debate over whether Nigeria should adopt state police has been settled, urging the country’s policymakers to move beyond discussions and focus on creating an effective decentralised policing structure capable of addressing growing security challenges.
Speaking at the ARISE NEWS Town Hall on State Police, Mbah argued that Nigeria’s current centralised policing system has become inadequate in responding to the complex and evolving nature of insecurity across the country. He said governors, who are often held accountable for security outcomes in their states, must be given the necessary authority and operational tools to protect lives and property.
“The question of whether we need state police should no longer be the focus,” Mbah said, stressing that the priority should now be designing a system that balances national oversight with local intelligence, speed and accountability.
The governor pointed to Enugu State’s security experience, saying strategic investments in technology, artificial intelligence-powered surveillance systems and community-based security coordination had contributed to a significant reduction in violent crimes by more than 90 per cent.
According to Mbah, a decentralised policing model would allow states to respond faster to security threats while maintaining national standards and coordination. He maintained that local authorities are better positioned to understand the unique security dynamics within their communities and develop solutions suited to their realities.
He also linked effective policing to economic development, arguing that security remains a critical foundation for attracting investment, boosting business confidence and creating an environment where citizens can thrive.
Mbah called for a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s security architecture, advocating a system where federal and state institutions work together to ensure safety while empowering local structures with the flexibility needed to tackle emerging threats.
Nigeria has for years debated the establishment of state police, with supporters arguing that decentralisation would improve intelligence gathering and crime prevention, while critics have raised concerns about possible political interference and abuse of power.
The governor’s remarks add to growing calls from political leaders, security experts and stakeholders for a major overhaul of the country’s policing framework.
