Governor Abiodun Calls for Reforms to Support State Police

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called for important judicial, financial, and institutional changes. He wants these reforms to support the proposed State Police system. He believes this effort should go beyond just creating new security bodies. It must also tackle the legal and financial issues that will keep them running smoothly.

At the THISDAY/ARISE TV Town Hall Meeting about the State Police Bill, Governor Abiodun praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He described him as a strong supporter of federalism. Abiodun said Tinubu’s push for local policing shows his long-held belief in true federalism.

The governor stated that history will remember President Tinubu for his willingness to decentralize policing. He mentioned respected figures like Chief Olusegun Osoba and Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, who both support Tinubu’s federalist views.

But Abiodun pointed out that the current legislative process needs to address key questions. He wants to know why the Nigeria Police Force has not performed well. He also asked how the federal and state police can work together better.

He believes a stronger state police will lead to more arrests and prosecutions. This makes it essential to improve the judiciary for quicker trials and justice.

Abiodun told lawmakers to think about whether Nigeria needs more judicial reforms. He suggested setting up State Courts of Appeal for issues like land disputes. This would help relieve pressure on the higher courts.

The governor also called on policymakers to deal with the root causes of insecurity. He highlighted the ongoing farmers-herders clashes as a major problem. These conflicts have caused food insecurity in many areas.

He said fixing these issues would ease the burden on law enforcement while helping peace and farming.

On funding, Abiodun raised concerns about differences in how states generate revenue. He warned that this could weaken the state police if not handled well.

Using Ogun State as an example, he pointed out that it is Nigeria’s industrial center. Despite this, it receives low funding from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

He said a fair funding system is needed. This should combine money made internally with federal funds. This way, every state can afford to set up and maintain a good police service.

Abiodun also pushed for independent Police Complaints Commissions at both federal and state levels. This would help prevent power abuse and improve accountability.

He supported ideas to expand the National Police Council to include leaders from the National Assembly and state governors. He also backed fixed terms for State Commissioners of Police to keep them away from political pressure.

The governor thanked THISDAY and ARISE Television for organizing the town hall meeting. He said public engagement is key to creating a State Police law that meets the needs and worries of Nigerians.

He is hopeful that ongoing talks in the coming weeks will help lawmakers create a strong legal framework. This will boost security and improve Nigeria’s federal system.