The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has called for the implementation of the newly passed State Police Bill to be postponed until after the 2027 general election, warning that it could be abused for political purposes if introduced before the polls.
In a statement shared via his social media platforms on Friday, June 26, Obi described the passage of the bill by the National Assembly as a significant milestone in Nigeria's quest to address its growing security challenges. However, he expressed reservations about the legislative process that led to its passage, insisting that the implementation framework raises serious concerns.
According to Obi, Nigeria's highly centralized policing system has long been inadequate for a country of its size, diversity, and complexity. He noted that many stakeholders, including security experts and regional leaders, have consistently advocated for state policing as a solution to the country's security crisis.
Despite supporting the concept of state police, Obi faulted the manner in which the legislation was handled, claiming there was insufficient public participation in the process.
"The process should involve greater community participation. Policing should be more visible at the local government and community levels. The mechanism for passing the law appears highly disorganised, with no public hearing on such a sensitive issue," he said.
He added that the speed with which the bill was passed without extensive legislative engagement has fueled suspicions over the political motives behind the move.
Obi further warned that the biggest concern surrounding state police is the possibility of governors using the security outfit as a political weapon against opponents.
He argued that without strong institutional safeguards, state police could be deployed to intimidate political rivals, disrupt opposition activities, and influence election outcomes.
To prevent such abuse, Obi proposed the establishment of independent oversight bodies, including state-level Police Service Commissions that would operate free from the control of state governors.
According to him, such institutions are necessary to ensure that state police serve the interests of the public rather than those of the political elite.
Obi also expressed doubts about the current administration's ability to resist the temptation of using state police to influence the outcome of the 2027 elections.
"In view of that possibility and the danger it poses to the polity, it is necessary to defer its implementation until after the general election," he stated.
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