State Police: Rights Group Publishes Bill, Seeks Public Input

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has published a draft State Police Bill and called on Nigerians to scrutinise the proposal and submit recommendations before it is presented to the National Assembly. Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma said broad public participation is essential to ensure the legislation strengthens security without undermining citizens' rights.

Nwanguma explained that the draft bill contains safeguards intended to prevent state police from becoming tools of political intimidation or abuse by state governors. According to him, the proposal introduces stronger oversight mechanisms, clearer accountability provisions and independent complaint processes aimed at protecting civil liberties.

He noted that while Nigeria urgently requires more effective policing, decentralising the police without adequate legal safeguards could worsen existing human rights concerns. He stressed that any state police structure must operate under strict constitutional limits and remain subject to independent civilian oversight.

RULAAC urged civil society organisations, legal experts, professional bodies and members of the public to study the draft bill and contribute suggestions that would strengthen its provisions before it proceeds through the legislative process. The organisation said an inclusive approach would help produce a law that balances public safety with accountability and respect for fundamental rights.

The publication comes amid ongoing national debate over the creation of state police, with supporters arguing it would improve local security while critics continue to express concerns about potential political misuse and inadequate oversight.