Former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Godwin Ndudi Elumelu, has emphasized the need for safeguards against political interference in the state police bill currently under consideration by the National Assembly. Elumelu stated that the establishment of state police will bring policing closer to communities while maintaining professionalism, accountability, and national cohesion. He made this statement at the 2nd Annual House of Representatives Press Corps Distinguished Parliamentary Lecture in Abuja.
Elumelu highlighted that policing is not merely a security issue but also a matter of governance, constitutional responsibility, and the relationship among the different tiers of government. He questioned whether the existing policing architecture provides sufficient room for local responsiveness while maintaining national standards and cohesion. According to him, citizens expect security agencies to understand the peculiar circumstances of their communities and respond promptly to threats to lives and property.
The 36 state Houses of Assembly are currently considering the state police bill for concurrence, with only four states having passed the bill so far. Elumelu stressed that the discussion on state police should be approached with seriousness, openness, and commitment to the national interest. He emphasized that bringing policing closer to the people must be accompanied by safeguards to ensure professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights, and freedom from political interference.
Elumelu called for a sustainable policing framework that provides effective mechanisms for oversight, accountability, and redress, while ensuring adequate training, welfare, funding, and professional standards for personnel. He also urged legislators, journalists, civil society actors, academics, security professionals, and citizens to focus on building a policing system that protects Nigerians, strengthens public confidence, and contributes to a more secure and cohesive federation.
The former Minority Leader commended the House of Representatives Press Corps for sustaining the annual lecture, expressing confidence that the discussions would enrich the national conversation and provide valuable perspectives for policymakers and other stakeholders. He also acknowledged the important role of the media, particularly the parliamentary press corps, in facilitating informed debate and holding public institutions accountable.
Elumelu noted that strengthening federalism requires an effective balance between national unity and the ability of federating units to respond to the realities of their people. He called for continuous dialogue, constitutional reflection, and institutional reform in addressing the issue of state police. According to him, the media has a crucial role to play in shaping public discourse and promoting accountability.
The lecture was organized by the House of Representatives Press Corps, with Elumelu serving as the keynote speaker. He is also the APC candidate for Aniocha federal constituency of Delta State in the House of Representatives. Elumelu's remarks reflect his commitment to promoting effective policing and good governance in Nigeria.
Key points
- Elumelu urges NASS to ensure safeguards against political interference in state police bill
- State police bill aims to bring policing closer to communities while maintaining professionalism and accountability
- Only four states have passed the state police bill so far, out of 36 states.
