The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has cautioned that the proposed establishment of state police must never be allowed to serve as a tool for political intimidation or repression.
He stressed that any move to decentralise policing in Nigeria should be guided by transparency, accountability, professionalism and a firm commitment to protecting citizens rather than advancing political interests.
Kalu made the remarks on Thursday while speaking at the 2026 South-East Regional Security Summit, themed “Collaborative Approaches to Strengthening Security and Regional Stability.”
According to him, the country’s growing security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and communal conflicts, require a coordinated response involving the federal and state governments, security agencies, traditional institutions, local communities and civil society organisations.
The Deputy Speaker, who also serves as Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, said discussions around state police should focus on strengthening public safety while putting in place safeguards that prevent abuse of power.
He maintained that effective policing must be people-centred, respect the rule of law and uphold the rights of every Nigerian regardless of political affiliation.
Kalu noted that the ongoing constitutional review presents an opportunity to introduce security reforms that reflect Nigeria’s present realities while improving the country’s ability to tackle emerging security threats.
He urged governments, security agencies and other stakeholders to work together in developing a policing system that promotes public trust, strengthens accountability and guarantees lasting peace, stability and justice across the country.
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