The growing call for state police in Nigeria has sparked a heated debate, with a policy expert warning that it could lead to a dangerous policy direction. Mr. Francis Onabis, in a statement, expressed concerns that granting governors authority to establish and control armed police forces risks deepening political abuse, victimization, and instability across the federation.

Mr. Onabis argued that a more sustainable solution lies not in fragmenting law enforcement, but in overhauling and strengthening the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) as a national institution. “Nigeria does not need fragmented, state-controlled police forces vulnerable to political misuse,” he said. “What the nation urgently requires is a professional, well-resourced, and accountable national police service that can earn public trust and deliver security for all citizens.”

Onabis believes that reform should focus on four key policy areas, including redefining police priorities, police welfare and incentives, funding and accountability, and modernization and capacity building. He suggested that the Nigerian Police should primarily serve citizens, not function as personal guards for politicians and their families.

Onabis proposed the establishment of a National Police Reform Bill that sets clear priorities for citizen-focused policing, a Secret Service Protection Unit for political office holders and VIPs, and a transparent Police Welfare and Equipment Fund managed jointly by the Federal Government, the Police Service Commission, and civil society observers.

The expert also emphasized the need for statutory funding for modern policing tools, annual training and professional certification for officers, and a National Policing Oversight Committee to ensure accountability and prevent abuse of power. “Reforming the Nigerian Police Force is the wiser and safer path than creating parallel state forces,” Onabis said. “The focus should be on building institutions—not multiplying weaknesses.”