The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has urged a reconsideration of the State Police Bill that was recently approved by the Senate, citing apprehensions regarding the potential misuse by state governors.
In a statement, Afenifere warned that without adequate safeguards, state police could be used to intimidate political opponents, suppress dissent, and undermine democratic governance. The group insisted that the bill must include strong provisions for federal oversight, civilian accountability, and independent judicial monitoring.
Afenifere stressed the need for a professional recruitment and training framework to ensure that state police forces operate with integrity and respect for human rights. The group called for further public consultations before the bill is finalised.
The organisation also argued that the bill should be broadened to include provisions for local government policing and community-based security structures. Afenifere maintained that security is a shared responsibility and that the new framework must reflect Nigeria’s federal character and diverse security needs.
Afenifere’s position comes as the bill moves to the House of Representatives for further legislative action
Credit: TYT
