Adebo Ogundoyin: Centralised policing has failed, state police a patriotic imperative

Adebo Ogundoyin, chairman of the conference of speakers in Nigeria, has reiterated the need for the creation of state police.

He said the current centralised policing structure has become overstretched and ineffective.

Speaking at a legislative dialogue on Nigeria’s security architecture in Abuja, Ogundoyin highlighted the widespread insecurity challenges confronting Nigeria, including insurgency in the north-east, banditry and kidnappings in the north, and herder-farmer clashes in the south.

“As presiding officers of the 36 state houses of assembly, we witness firsthand the devastating impact of insecurity on lives, livelihoods, and governance,” Ogundoyin said.

“This dialogue is an opportunity to align our legislative priorities with the realities faced by our people.”

Ogundoyin described the establishment of state police as a patriotic and strategic necessity.

He acknowledged concerns about potential misuse, jurisdictional conflicts, and operational capacity but assured that these challenges could be managed through clear legislation, independent oversight, and inter-agency cooperation.

The speaker of the Oyo state house of assembly called for enhanced intelligence sharing, improved funding and welfare for security personnel, and stronger legal frameworks to tackle emerging threats such as cybercrime and transnational terrorism.

He urged lawmakers to prioritise constitutional reforms to reshape Nigeria’s security framework for the benefit of present and future generations.

“May the souls of all Nigerians who have lost their lives needlessly to insecurity rest in perfect peace,” Ogundoyin said.