Fresh Twist In State Police Debate As Sani Reveals Limits On Governors’ Powers

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has assured Nigerians that the proposed State Police system will not be subject to political manipulation by state governors, citing multiple safeguards embedded in the legislation.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking on Channels Television shortly after the Senate passed a constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish State Police across the federation, Sani said the legal framework contains strict provisions designed to prevent abuse of power.

The governor expressed confidence that concerns over governors using State Police for political purposes had been adequately addressed through checks and balances incorporated into the bill.

According to him, while governors will have the authority to appoint Commissioners of Police under the proposed structure, they will not have the power to remove them at will.

“I can tell you today that a governor can appoint a Commissioner of Police, but cannot sack him,” Sani said. “Even the State House of Assembly cannot unilaterally remove the commissioner. Such a decision must receive approval from the Police Service Commission or Police Council, as well as both the National Assembly and the State Assembly.”

He stressed that these provisions were deliberately included to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of the State Police system.

“There are numerous safeguards in the Act to stop any form of abuse,” he added.

Sani further stated that the establishment of State Police is not driven by political interests but by the need to strengthen security and improve the protection of lives and property across the country.

He expressed optimism that Nigerians would embrace the initiative, noting that it could play a significant role in tackling the nation’s growing security challenges.

The Senate on Wednesday approved constitutional amendments paving the way for the creation of State Police as part of broader efforts to reform Nigeria’s security architecture.