CLEEN Foundation Endorses FG’s Move Towards State Police
In a noteworthy development, the CLEEN Foundation has expressed its full support for the Federal Government of Nigeria’s consideration of establishing state police as part of ongoing efforts to bolster security and safeguard citizens.
The foundation commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in addressing the evolving security challenges faced by the nation.
Embracing the principle of subsidiarity, the proposed state police forces aim to decentralize law enforcement responsibilities, empowering state governments to effectively handle local security threats.
The CLEEN Foundation has outlined crucial recommendations to facilitate the successful implementation of state police in Nigeria.
The foundation advocates for constitutional amendments to accommodate the establishment and regulation of state police forces, ensuring checks and balances. Critical sections, including Section 214, 215, 216, 217, 318, Schedule 2, Part I & II, and Schedule 4, Part I, are identified for necessary amendments.
To guarantee integrity and professionalism, robust oversight, transparency, and accountability mechanisms are proposed. The establishment of an independent State Police Service Commission is suggested, overseeing recruitment, training, discipline, and administration.
Recognizing potential financial challenges, the foundation calls for allocating sufficient resources to support personnel recruitment, training, and retention, as well as modern technology procurement. Fiscal federalism is proposed to ease the burden on the federal government.
A clear and comprehensive legal framework governing state police operations, collaboration protocols with federal agencies, jurisdictional boundaries, and grievance mechanisms are recommended.
The CLEEN Foundation advocates for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the role and responsibilities of state police forces, promoting a better understanding of their rights and obligations in supporting law enforcement efforts.
The CLEEN Foundation however calls on development partners and stakeholders to rally behind the President’s vision and implement the proposed recommendations for a safer, secure, and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
