Wike Backtracks On State Police, Cites Risks Of Abuse By Governors

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has expressed doubts over Nigeria’s readiness for state policing, citing weak institutional structures as a major concern.

For years, the idea of state policing has been a central issue in Nigeria’s security discourse, with many state governors advocating for its establishment as a means of combating insecurity more effectively. Last year, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani revealed that all 36 state governments had submitted reports in support of the initiative.

However, during a media chat on Sunday, Wike raised alarm over the potential dangers of implementing state and community policing under the current system. He warned that such a move could pave the way for dictatorial governance at the state level, leaving many citizens vulnerable to abuse.

“People have been clamoring for state and community policing,” Wike said. “But considering where we are as a nation, if this is implemented, many people might be too scared to leave their homes. Our institutions are not independent enough to withstand systemic manipulation.”

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Reflecting on his time as Rivers State governor, Wike acknowledged his past support for state policing but admitted that he may have been wrong in his judgment. He explained that while the concept seemed viable at the time, the realities of governance and institutional weaknesses had reshaped his perspective.

“The fact that I supported state police back then doesn’t mean it’s still the right approach,” he stated. “We must admit that our systems are not robust enough to prevent abuse by state leaders.”

During his tenure as Rivers governor, Wike had signed a bill to establish the Neighborhood Safety Corps, a security outfit tasked with crime prevention, arresting offenders, and carrying arms when necessary. While the initiative aimed to enhance security, he now questions whether such frameworks can thrive in Nigeria without compromising the safety and rights of citizens.

Wike’s reversal underscores the ongoing debate over the viability of state policing in Nigeria, as advocates push for reform while critics warn of potential misuse and authoritarian tendencies.