Insecurity: Time For State Police Is Now — Laolu Akande

• Laolu Akande, former presidential aide, passionately calls for immediate implementation of state police to address escalating kidnapping and insecurity nationwide
• Akande stresses the need for a decentralized approach, highlighting localized policing initiatives like Zamfara Protection Guard and Amotekun in various regions

In response to the escalating prevalence of kidnapping and insecurity nationwide, former presidential aide and journalist, Laolu Akande, has urged the immediate implementation of state police.

Akande argued that the existing centralized security structure is insufficient to tackle the diverse security challenges faced by individual states. Addressing the nation on his TV show, “Inside Sources,” he passionately highlighted the urgent need for localized security forces to effectively combat crime across the country.

Speaking in the “My Take” segment, Akande emphasized, “The time has come for the formal proper establishment of state police in the country. It is also important for all stakeholders to ensure proper rules of engagement, and we are calling for a proper constitutional amendment to define how this will not be abused.”

He urged the President, governors, members of the National Assembly, State Assemblies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and leaders of thought to rally behind the idea of state police. Akande stressed the importance of efficient implementation without encouraging abuse.

Presenting a compelling case for state police, Akande referenced recent developments in different regions. He highlighted the Zamfara Protection Guard in Gusau, the rise of Amotekun in the Southwest, and Abube Agu in the Southeast as examples of localized policing initiatives.

“It makes sense with all the insecurities in the country; we can no longer have one commander of the police in Abuja directing what is happening in the 36 states of the country,” Akande stated, emphasizing the need for a decentralized approach to address the complex security landscape.

As the call for state police gains momentum, Akande urged swift action to capitalize on the opportunity for reform and ensure a more effective and accountable security system in Nigeria.