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Uzodimma praises Tinubu, NASS over state police bill

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Senator Hope Uzodimma, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly for advancing the constitutional process towards the establishment of state police, describing the development as a landmark step in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.

Uzodimma, in a statement issued on Friday, praised President Tinubu for what he described as his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to restructuring the country’s security architecture.

The National Assembly recently passed the State Police Bill as part of ongoing constitutional amendments, with the proposal now awaiting ratification by at least two-thirds of the state Houses of Assembly.

The Governor also praised the leadership of the National Assembly for demonstrating patriotism and responsiveness to the yearnings of Nigerians by supporting the proposed constitutional amendment.

According to the statement, the establishment of state police would strengthen internal security, improve intelligence gathering and enable quicker responses to criminal activities at the grassroots.

“The passage of the State Police Bill by the National Assembly is a bold and historic milestone in our collective effort to address Nigeria’s security challenges. I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the leadership and political will that made this possible.”

Uzodimma noted that decentralising policing would empower states to complement federal security agencies while enhancing community policing through better knowledge of local terrain, language and culture.

He maintained that the reform would not only improve public safety but also foster economic growth by creating a more secure environment for businesses and investments.

“This reform reflects a deep understanding of the country’s evolving security realities. State police, when backed by appropriate constitutional safeguards, will enhance collaboration among security agencies and ensure more effective protection of lives and property.”

The governor urged state governments, traditional institutions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to work together to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.

He stressed that adequate legal safeguards should be put in place to prevent abuse and guarantee professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

Uzodimma expressed confidence that the proposed state police structure would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s federal system and contribute to lasting peace and national development.

The governor expressed optimistism that the remaining constitutional processes would be concluded in the interest of national security and the welfare of Nigerians.