Falana, Gani Adams, Ajaero call for well-managed state police system in Nigeria

Prominent legal practitioner, Femi Falana, has urged Nigerian authorities to establish a properly structured system for state police, cautioning that poor management could lead to abuse and repression.

Falana spoke on Thursday at the Fifth Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Ikeja, which focused on the theme “Can Nigeria Democracy Work Without Restructuring?”

He stressed that restructuring remains essential for true federalism, stating: “Restructuring is about who are the beneficiaries,” while warning that security institutions could be misused by some state governments against critics if not properly regulated.

According to him, state police must not become a tool for political intimidation. He said: “We must stop agonising and we must get organised in the interest of our people.”

The President of the International Press Centre, Lanre Arogundade, also cautioned that without proper safeguards, state police could be exploited to target opposition figures and journalists.

He emphasized the need for democratic oversight and a citizen-centered approach, adding that Nigeria should ensure any policing structure serves the collective interest of its people. He further recommended greater use of technology in addressing insecurity.

In his contribution, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, expressed support for state police but insisted it must be properly designed and implemented to benefit citizens.

Adams said he was willing to work with governments to strengthen security, noting that sustaining the legacy of the late Yinka Odumakin requires commitment to justice, democracy, and good governance.

The Nigeria Labour Congress President, Joe Ajaero, also backed the creation of state police.

The memorial lecture drew participation from civil society leaders and rights activists, including Omoyele Sowore, Olumide Fusika, Agba Jalingo, and Richard Akinola, reflecting continued national discussions on restructuring and policing reforms.

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