Former Anambra CP Adeoye welcomes state police proposal, dismisses abuse fears
Former Anambra State Commissioner of Police Aderemi Adeoye welcomed Nigeria's move to establish state police, calling it a 'welcome development' during a Channels Television interview on Wednesday, June 19, 2026. Adeoye dismissed fears of potential abuse, arguing that bringing policing closer to communities would improve law enforcement effectiveness.
Adeoye pointed to developed countries where federal, state, and municipal police coexist, stating this structure allows state police to handle local security while federal police focus on national crimes. He commended President Bola Tinubu for transmitting the constitutional amendment bill to the Senate President on Tuesday, June 18, 2026, which seeks to create a legal framework for dual policing structure nationwide.
While acknowledging historical concerns about state police abuse dating back to the 1960s, Adeoye insisted Nigeria has evolved and now requires this structure to address rising insecurity. He urged the National Assembly to implement safeguards preventing political opposition from being targeted by state forces.
The proposal allows states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the existing federal police force, forming part of broader security architecture reforms amid Nigeria's ongoing security challenges.