Security
OPEN Alliance, a coalition of civil society organisations, has called for stronger accountability, transparency, human rights protections and citizen participation in ongoing discussions on the proposed devolution of policing in Nigeria.
The coalition made the call following a stakeholder dialogue on “Devolution of Policing in Nigeria: Pathways to Effective and Accountable State Policing” held in Abuja.
The dialogue brought together representatives of civil society organisations, governance institutions, development partners, legal practitioners, security experts, media practitioners and policy actors to examine opportunities and challenges associated with state policing.
Participants noted that Nigeria continues to face increasing security challenges, declining public trust in law enforcement institutions and growing calls for reforms of the nation’s security architecture.
They observed that while state policing has gained prominence in national security reform discussions, critical issues relating to governance, accountability, funding and institutional capacity remain unresolved.
According to the stakeholders, the effectiveness of any policing system depends not only on its structure but also on the strength of institutions responsible for oversight, accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights.
They stressed that the establishment of state police should not be viewed as a standalone solution to insecurity but as part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening public trust, improving service delivery and enhancing the legitimacy of policing institutions.
The stakeholders also examined the financial implications of state policing and highlighted disparities in the fiscal and institutional capacities of states.
They expressed concerns about the ability of some states to sustainably fund policing operations, maintain professional standards and guarantee operational independence from political influence.
The dialogue explored alternative approaches to decentralised policing, including phased implementation, regional collaboration and hybrid arrangements that could enable states to share resources and coordinate security responses while maintaining accountability standards.
Participants emphasised the need to uphold uniform national standards on professionalism, human rights compliance, operational conduct and constitutional safeguards regardless of the policing model adopted.
They also underscored the importance of broad citizen engagement and public consultation to ensure that policing reforms reflect the needs and aspirations of communities across the country.
Open Alliance reiterated the need for evidence-based policymaking and inclusive dialogue as discussions on constitutional amendments and policing reforms continue.
The coalition said such measures would help shape a policing system that is effective, accountable, rights-based and responsive to the security needs of Nigerians.
The statement was jointly endorsed by BudgIT Foundation, FENRAD, International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre, Accountability Lab, Centre for Transparency Advocacy, CISLAC, Dataphyte Foundation, Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), CLEEN Foundation, Connected Development (CODE), Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), SERDEC, CHRICED and other partner organisations.
F.O
Tags: Coalition State Police