NEC Postpones State Policing Discussions Amid Rising Security Concerns

Fresh indications emerged on Thursday that Nigeria’s federal and state governments remain divided on the controversial issue of state policing.

During its latest session at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, chose not to deliberate on the matter, despite growing public pressure and recent security crises across the country.

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State confirmed that the issue of state policing was not included in the official agenda of the meeting. His statement came after governors observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims of recent violent attacks in Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states, which claimed nearly 200 lives.

NEC had previously stated that a resolution on state policing would be addressed at a future meeting. Earlier, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State had claimed that all 36 states were aligned in support of the proposal and assured that the Council would soon make a formal announcement.

Governor Diri explained, however, that due to extended discussions on other pressing national issues, the topic was postponed.

This comes against the backdrop of widespread violence in parts of the country, particularly during President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip to France. Gunmen, reportedly masquerading as herders, launched coordinated attacks in several states, including Plateau, Benue, and Kwara.

In Plateau State, violent incidents in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas led to over 100 reported deaths and more than 2,000 people displaced, according to emergency response teams.

Benue State also witnessed harrowing attacks, with more than 100 people reportedly killed in the Ukum and Logo LGAs, sparking renewed calls for enhanced local security solutions.

While the debate over the establishment of state police remains unresolved, the scale and frequency of these violent incidents have increased pressure on both federal and state authorities to act swiftly and decisively.