Security groups in Nigeria's South West have welcomed the National Assembly's passage of a bill establishing state police.

The bill, which seeks to empower states to take direct control of security challenges, has been hailed as a significant step towards tackling rising insecurity through locally driven policing.

The security groups, however, noted that the effectiveness of the proposed policing structure will depend on the quality of collaboration between government authorities and community-based security organisations.

According to sources, the groups have urged federal and state authorities to strengthen collaboration with private and community-based security organisations to combat crime more effectively.

The Oodua Unity Group Secretary, Kola Aare, and the South West Security Stakeholders Group Publicity Secretary, Ireti Adewole, jointly signed a statement following a joint meeting held at the Aare Ona Kakanfo's residence.

The meeting recognised that sustainable peace requires coordinated efforts, respect for legal frameworks, and truthful communication.

The statement read: "This meeting recognises that sustainable peace requires coordinated efforts, respect for legal frameworks, and truthful communication."

Meanwhile, the security groups also clarified the constitutional role of the Aare Ona Kakanfo in security matters, stating that he can only intervene in security operations within a state at the request of the governor.

They urged journalists, commentators, and members of the public to avoid spreading misinformation regarding security incidents, as exaggerated or inaccurate reports can create panic and undermine ongoing security operations.

The security groups further reaffirmed their commitment to working with government agencies and traditional institutions to promote peace and stability across the South West.

### Key Facts

  • The National Assembly has passed a bill establishing state police in Nigeria.
  • The bill seeks to empower states to take direct control of security challenges.
  • The effectiveness of the proposed policing structure depends on collaboration between government authorities and community-based security organisations.
  • The security groups have urged federal and state authorities to strengthen collaboration with private and community-based security organisations.
  • The Aare Ona Kakanfo can only intervene in security operations within a state at the request of the governor.
  • The meeting recognised that sustainable peace requires coordinated efforts, respect for legal frameworks, and truthful communication.

### Context

Nigeria has been grappling with rising insecurity in recent years, with banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery becoming increasingly common.

The establishment of state police is seen as a means of addressing these security challenges effectively, as it allows states to take a more proactive role in securing their territories.