Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum says he’s not in support of state police.
Gatekeepers News reports that Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, North East Nigeria, says he’s not in support of state police.
In July, a bill sponsored by Onofiok Luke, lawmaker from Akwa Ibom state, seeking to establish state police passed second reading at the house of representatives.
Zulum said decentralising the police force will worsen the security challenges in the country.
He said this while delivering a lecture at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau state, North Central Nigeria.
Zulum said, “Honestly speaking, I, Babagana Zulum, will not support it, not because I don’t like it, but because of the implications.
“Nigeria is not mature for state police. Some state governors can use it to wipe away other tribes apart from their tribes.
“So, we have to be very careful. If half of the power given to the Nigeria army, police and others are given to state police, Nigeria will be in problem.
“The major problem is the recruitment process. Those being recruited into the Nigerian army, police and other security agencies are job seekers. Many of them are there because they don’t have a job.
“Those enlisted 20 years ago are performing well, but these people are looking for employment only. So, there’s no commitment and dedication.
“These days, governors, ministers and other top government functionaries have slots. Nobody is to interview them whether they are qualified or not. Admission into Nigerian Army, police and others are now politicized.
“Unless we get it right, nothing will happen in this country. If we want to make progress, we must ensure that we pick the best. If not, we shall continue to recruit the dull ones. We must engage those that can deliver because we have a lot of competent Nigerians.”
