By Adewole Kehinde,
“If you’re going to say what you want to say, you’re going to hear what you don’t want to hear.” ― Roberto Bolaño
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun was on a state visit to Ogun State from Tuesday, 16th April to Thursday, 18th April 2024 to commission various police projects.
I watched a video of the IGP during the presentation of security vehicles by the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun where the IGP said, “The police management is watching kneely the debate on state police. The police management will speak at the appropriate time and make its decision known to the public”
The media was agog with the headlines such as “IGP differs with Tinubu on state police,” “Tinubu, Jonathan, Abdulsalami, Back State Police As IGP Differs.”
I was opportune to meet with the Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Ben Okolo who represented the Inspector General of Police at the national dialogue on state police held in Abuja on Monday and he said, “I spoke from my own perspective, not on behalf of the IGP or the police management. At the appropriate time, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun will speak on the subject matter.”
The issue of state police in Nigeria is indeed a sensitive and complex topic. The debate around establishing state police forces in Nigeria has been ongoing for many years, with differing opinions and concerns raised by various stakeholders. Some people have expressed concerns about potential abuse of power, lack of proper training, and political interference.
It is important to approach discussions about state police in Nigeria with sensitivity and awareness of the diverse views and interests involved.
It is also crucial to consider the potential impact on security, governance, and human rights when exploring such reforms.
Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters and can be reached via 08166240846. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com
