By Jesse Ese | National News
The Coalition of Ijaw Youths (CIY) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed establishment of State Police, describing the initiative as a critical constitutional reform capable of addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges and strengthening the country’s policing system.
In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Bedford Berefa Benjamin, the group praised President Tinubu for demonstrating what it described as bold leadership in pursuing a long-awaited reform aimed at making policing more efficient, community-based and responsive to local security concerns.
The coalition noted that the rising cases of kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, communal conflicts, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, illegal refining, sea piracy and other violent crimes have exposed the limitations of the current centralised policing structure, making State Police a necessary alternative.
According to the group, decentralising policing would improve intelligence gathering, enhance emergency response, strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities, and complement the efforts of existing federal security institutions.
It further stated that State Police would bolster state security networks, improve the protection of critical infrastructure and create a safer environment capable of attracting investment and promoting economic development.
The coalition said the proposed reform holds particular significance for the Niger Delta, where repeated attacks on oil and gas installations, maritime crimes and other criminal activities continue to undermine regional stability, threaten livelihoods and reduce national revenue.
It maintained that a well-structured State Police system would strengthen the protection of strategic national assets, support lawful community-based security initiatives and improve coordination among security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.
While expressing support for the proposal, the coalition warned that State Police should not be allowed to become an instrument for political intimidation, oppression or the persecution of opposition voices.
It therefore urged the National Assembly to incorporate strong constitutional safeguards into the enabling legislation, including independent oversight mechanisms, transparent recruitment processes, clearly defined operational limits, sustainable funding arrangements and strict accountability measures to prevent abuse.
“The success of State Police will depend not only on its establishment but also on the strength of the legal and institutional safeguards guiding its operations. Officers must be professionally trained, adequately equipped and insulated from partisan political influence to earn public confidence and perform their duties effectively,” the statement said.
The coalition also called on the National Assembly, state governments, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to collaborate in developing a State Police framework anchored on federalism, professionalism, accountability and the rule of law.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms that strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, safeguard democratic institutions and promote peace, stability and sustainable national development.
