State Police: Coalition of Ijaw Youths Backs Tinubu, Seeks Safeguards Against Abuse
YENAGOA– The Coalition of Ijaw Youths (CIY) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposal for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a necessary constitutional reform to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and tackle the country’s growing security challenges.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Bedford Berefa Benjamin, the coalition commended the President for demonstrating the courage and leadership required to advance a long-debated reform aimed at making policing more effective, responsive and community-driven.
According to the group, the increasing wave of kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, communal clashes, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, illegal refining, sea piracy and other violent crimes underscores the urgent need for a policing system that is closer to the people and better equipped to respond to local security threats.
The coalition noted that State Police would strengthen intelligence gathering, improve response time to emergencies, deepen collaboration with local communities and complement the operations of existing federal security agencies.
It added that the reform would also reinforce state security networks, enhance the protection of critical national infrastructure and create a more secure environment for economic growth and investment.
The Coalition said the proposed reform would have far-reaching benefits for the Niger Delta, where persistent attacks on oil and gas facilities, maritime crimes and other forms of criminality continue to threaten livelihoods, national revenue and regional stability.
“Properly implemented, State Police will improve the protection of strategic national assets, support lawful community-based security initiatives and enhance coordination among security agencies in safeguarding lives and property,” the statement said.
While expressing its support for the initiative, the coalition cautioned that State Police must not become a tool for political intimidation, persecution or the suppression of legitimate opposition.
It urged the National Assembly to ensure that the enabling legislation contains clear constitutional safeguards, including independent oversight, transparent recruitment, defined operational limits, secure funding mechanisms and strict accountability measures to prevent abuse.
“The success of State Police will depend not only on its establishment but also on the strength of the legal and institutional safeguards guiding its operations.
Officers must be professionally trained, adequately equipped and insulated from partisan political influence to earn public confidence and discharge their responsibilities effectively.”
The coalition called on the National Assembly, state governments, traditional institutions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to work together in developing a State Police system that reflects the principles of federalism, professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
It reaffirmed its support for reforms that strengthen national security, protect democratic institutions and promote peace, stability and sustainable development across Nigeria.
