Rep. Yusuf Gagdi Rejects State Police, Calls for Stronger Funding of Security Agencies

House of Representatives member Yusuf Gagdi, representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, has rejected calls for the establishment of a state police force in Nigeria, despite growing insecurity in his constituency.

                                                          

Speaking during a visit to attacked and displaced communities in Kanam LGA on Sunday, Gagdi insisted that creating state police would only open the door for political abuse by governors.

Gagdi’s comments came in response to repeated calls from Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other leaders advocating for state police as a solution to worsening insecurity.

“My position, even on the House floor, is that governors will misuse state police, particularly against political opponents, not to maintain peace and order,” Gagdi said.

He emphasized that Nigeria is “not ripe” for the proliferation of security agencies, arguing instead for greater investment in existing federal security structures.

Communities in Kanam LGA, including Garga, Kukawa, Kyaram, Gyambau, Dungur, and Shuwaka, have faced repeated attacks from armed bandits and militias.

Despite these threats within his constituency, Gagdi maintained that state police is not the solution, stressing that:

• Governors could abuse state-controlled forces for political ends.

• True progress lies in adequately funding and equipping federal agencies such as the police, military, and DSS.

• Accountability must be enforced to ensure effective operations.

Gagdi urged the federal government and security agencies to:

• Launch vigorous operations in forests along the borders of Plateau, Taraba, and Bauchi.

• Focus on bringing criminals and armed groups to justice.

• Provide adequate resources for existing security structures to restore peace.