Tambuwal Backs State Police Bill, Calls for Safeguards Against Abuse

Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has reiterated his support for the establishment of state police, describing it as a big step toward strengthening Nigeria’s federal system of government.

Speaking during Senate deliberations on the constitutional amendment bill seeking to create state police, Tambuwal said his position on the issue has remained consistent throughout his political career.

“I have been consistent in my support for state police. It is well known. From when I was a Speaker, through my time as governor of Sokoto State, and now as a senator representing my people,” he said.

The lawmaker argued that decentralised policing would deepen federalism and improve security across the country, especially in communities facing persistent attacks by criminal elements.

Tambuwal cited recent security challenges in his constituency, revealing that more than 80 people were killed in a bandit attack in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State just weeks ago. He also disclosed that police officers on a rescue mission in the same area were recently killed.

“Just about three to four weeks ago, we lost over eighty of our people in Tureta Local Government to banditry. And just three to four days ago, we also lost police personnel who were on a rescue mission in the same local government,” he stated.

While endorsing the bill, Tambuwal stressed the need for adequate safeguards to prevent abuse of state police powers. He aligned himself with concerns raised by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who had called for mechanisms to ensure accountability and prevent political misuse of the proposed security structure.

“I support this bill. But I also align myself with the position canvassed by Senator Abaribe, that there must be safeguards against abuse,” Tambuwal said.

He urged his colleagues in the Senate to support the legislation and work with President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to address insecurity across the country.

“I therefore urge this Senate to support this bill, and to support Mr. President and the security agencies to re-establish security in all parts of Nigeria,” he added.

The Senate on Wednesday passed the constitutional amendment bill on state police after extensive debate, marking a very important step in ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s security architecture and address growing security challenges nationwide.