Insecurity: Reps Deputy Speaker Calls for Immediate Implementation of State Police

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has underscored the urgent need for the establishment of state police as a critical solution to Nigeria’s ongoing insecurity problems.

Benjamin Kalu made the remarks during a press briefing in Abuja, following his return from Geneva, Switzerland, where he represented Nigeria at the 55th WTO–Inter-Parliamentary Union Public Forum.

He criticized the country’s current centralized policing system as inadequate and out of step with international best practices.

“The only way forward is to dismantle the centralized structure and adopt municipal and state policing systems, as is the case in many other countries,” Kalu explained.

He highlighted that the state police bill currently before the National Assembly aims to improve police response times and align Nigeria’s security framework with global standards.

Kalu also announced that a national public hearing on the bill is scheduled for Monday, providing Nigerians the chance to express their opinions on the proposal.

While acknowledging concerns about potential abuse of state police powers, he stressed that ensuring security for the majority remains paramount.

In addition, Kalu revealed that Nigeria, alongside other African delegations, is advocating for Afrocentric issues to be prominently addressed at the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference set for Yaoundé in March 2026.

“Africa and its problems must be at the table — not outside the room,” he stated.