Citing the state’s increasing insecurity and the governors’ limited authority over federal security services, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has reiterated calls for the creation of state police.
The governor voiced his displeasure with the present security setup in an interview on Tuesday, claiming that it makes it more difficult to respond effectively to criminal activity around the state.
Despite being referred to as their states’ chief security officers, Lawal pointed out that governors have little operational control over security forces like the army, police, and civil defense corps. He claims that this restriction makes it challenging for state governments to act decisively or face consequences for insecurity.
He explained that in most cases, heads of security agencies defer to their superiors at the federal level, which delays response and weakens coordination at the state level.
The governor emphasised that this structural defect is one of the major reasons why insecurity persists in Zamfara and other parts of the country.
He said that the creation of state police would give governors complete control over internal security, including hiring and educating policemen who are familiar with the risks and terrain in the area.
Lawal went on to say that governments may better manage and equip their own security forces with proper legal support, increasing efficiency and accountability.
The governor urged the National Assembly and the federal government to give constitutional amendments first priority in order to open the door for the nationwide deployment of state police.
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