Nigeria police reform gains steam as insecurity rocks country
Summary
Nigeria’s move to decentralise policing has cleared a major hurdle after two-thirds of state assemblies approved the constitutional change sought by President Bola Tinubu. Supporters say state police could improve security, while critics warn governors may use them to intimidate opponents and interfere with elections.
Key Points
- Two-thirds of Nigeria’s state assemblies have approved the constitutional reform needed to create state police forces.
- President Bola Tinubu is pushing the change as insecurity worsens ahead of January’s election.
- Supporters say decentralised policing would improve accountability and local response, while critics fear abuse by governors.
- Nigeria faces multiple security crises, including jihadist insurgency, banditry, farmer-herder violence and separatist conflict.
