National

By Kabir Ali Fagge

In Nigeria, security has long been a topic of paramount concern. The efficacy of law enforcement agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has often been scrutinized in the face of escalating crime rates and challenges to public safety.

One proposed solution that has garnered significant attention is the establishment of state police forces. The history of policing in Nigeria is marked by a series of reforms and challenges. Since Nigeria’s transition to democratic rule in 1999, the Nigerian police have undergone various reforms in an attempt to address issues within the force.

These reforms have been a response to the need for more effective law enforcement mechanisms to combat rising crime rates and insecurity in the country.

We all know that the Nigerian police force has a long history of facing criticism for unprofessional conduct, corruption, and the use of excessive force.

Nigeria inherited a centralized police structure modelled after the British system. The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) operated under federal jurisdiction and was tasked with maintaining law and order throughout the nation.

State Police, on the other hand, entails the decentralization of law enforcement authority, granting individual states within a federal system the power to establish and manage their own police forces.

Under this model, states would have the autonomy to address security issues specific to their regions, tailoring law enforcement strategies to local needs and priorities.

Proponents argue that state police can foster greater community engagement, enhance responsiveness to local concerns, and improve overall security outcomes.

The existing centralized police system has faced criticism for its inability to effectively address the security concerns of the diverse Nigerian population.

The call for state police stems from the need for a more localized approach to law enforcement that can better cater to the specific security needs of different regions within Nigeria.

Establishing state police in Nigeria is a significant step that requires a thorough understanding of global policing practices. While the centralized police system is predominant in many countries, there are instances of decentralized policing models.

For example, Municipal Police in France, Municipal Law Enforcement Officers in the Netherlands, and Police Community Support Officers in England and Wales represent non-police uniformed state officers in a decentralized system.

Comparative analyses of policing in countries that have undergone political or social transitions, such as Russia, Brazil, and China, highlight the importance of understanding the contextual factors that shape policing practices. Confidence in the police varies across different countries, with Taiwan ranking among the top one-third globally, indicating variations in public perceptions of law enforcement; therefore, those who argue that the establishment of state police is not out of place.

Community policing, actively conducted in countries like South Africa, Northern Ireland, and Sierra Leone, emphasizes the importance of engaging communities in maintaining public safety. However, the effectiveness of community policing initiatives can vary based on each country’s socio-political context.

While some countries prioritize individualism and minimal government intrusion in policing, others focus on collective well-being through law and order.

I think what Nigerians want to know is how is state policing going to be any better than the current system of policing in Nigeria.

According to pundits, the establishment of state police in Nigeria promises to bolster security at the grassroots level. State police forces, attuned to the unique security dynamics of their regions, can enact targeted measures for more efficient crime prevention and control.

This localized approach fosters stronger community engagement and enables proactive responses to emerging threats, ultimately ensuring safer environments for all. Such reforms hold the potential to significantly enhance law enforcement’s effectiveness and responsiveness across the nation.

State police deployment within local communities will supposedly ensure swift emergency responses, curtailing intervention time in critical situations. By having officers stationed close to the areas they serve, the state police can swiftly address emergencies, thereby enhancing public safety.

This proximity allows for immediate action, minimizing the potential impact of crises on communities. Such rapid responses underscore the effectiveness of localized law enforcement in ensuring timely assistance during emergencies.

State-level oversight of law enforcement ensures accountability and transparency, as state governments are directly answerable to their constituents. This close supervision fosters trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, enhancing transparency in operations.

By holding state authorities accountable, citizens can have greater confidence in the integrity of policing practices, ultimately strengthening democratic principles. Such measures reflect a commitment to upholding transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s law enforcement framework.

State police possess the flexibility to tailor strategies and allocate resources according to local needs, enhancing their ability to address emerging threats and crime trends. This adaptability ensures a dynamic response to evolving security challenges, bolstering effectiveness in crime prevention and control.

We must also look at some disadvantages posed by the governors to establish the State Police. Firstly, Critics warn of the potential for abuse of power with decentralized policing, citing concerns about corruption, political interference, and violations of human rights at the state level. This apprehension underscores the importance of establishing robust oversight mechanisms to safeguard against misuse of authority and uphold the rule of law.

Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure that decentralization efforts in policing prioritize accountability and respect for human rights, thereby fostering trust and confidence in law enforcement institutions. Such vigilance is essential to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of state police forces in Nigeria.

Fragmentation of law enforcement across states presents coordination challenges in tackling transnational crimes and upholding national security. This underscores the need for seamless collaboration and information-sharing mechanisms among state police forces.

Effective coordination ensures a unified approach to combating cross-border criminal activities, safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and public safety. Addressing these challenges is paramount to fostering synergy and maximizing the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts nationwide.

Unequal resource allocation among states may hinder smaller or economically disadvantaged regions from adequately funding and equipping their police forces, leading to discrepancies in law enforcement capabilities.

The establishment of state police carries constitutional and legal implications, necessitating amendments and legislative frameworks to define the powers, jurisdiction, and duties of state and federal law enforcement entities.

This underscores the importance of comprehensive legal reforms to ensure clarity and coherence in the division of responsibilities between different levels of law enforcement.

The debate surrounding the establishment of state police in Nigeria is multifaceted, reflecting the complex interplay of security, governance, and constitutional considerations.

While proponents argue that decentralization can lead to more responsive and accountable law enforcement, sceptics raise concerns about the potential for abuse of power and operational challenges.

Ultimately, any decision to implement state police must be carefully weighed against its potential benefits and drawbacks, with a keen focus on enhancing security while upholding the principles of justice and democracy.

Kabir Fagge Ali is a youth corps member with PRNigeria Centre and wrote via faggekabir29@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

President Bola Tinubu expressed profound grief and condemnation over the recent attack on Nigerian soldiers during a rescue mission to Okuoma Community in Delta State. 

Tinubu expressed his sadness in a statement released today. 

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, reportedly claimed the lives of several military personnel, including high-ranking officers. 

The President described the attack as unprovoked and cowardly, stating the sacrifices made by the brave servicemen and women who put their lives on the line to maintain peace and security in the nation.

Among the casualties were a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and twelve soldiers, along with one civilian. 

Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and loved ones.

He was quoted as saying, “I extend my profound condolences to the families of these fallen soldiers, their colleagues and their loved ones. The military high command is already responding to this incident. The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished..

He noted that any attack on the armed forces is a direct assault on the nation itself and vowed to relentlessly pursue peace and security across Nigeria. 

The President granted full authority to the Defence Headquarters and Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice swiftly.

He praised the heroism, courage, and patriotism of the fallen soldiers, noting that they join the ranks of the nation’s esteemed defenders who sacrificed everything for the country. 

President Tinubu equally reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to achieving peace and tranquilly in every corner of Nigeria, calling upon divine intervention to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguard its armed forces.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu 

In Nigeria, amalgamating diverse cultures, religions, ethnicities, and political ideologies presents opportunities and challenges. To navigate this intricate tapestry effectively, embracing diversity is paramount. Rather than viewing differences as divisive, Nigerians should celebrate the richness they bring to the nation’s identity.

Ultimately, the path to unity in Nigeria lies in embracing diversity while recognizing the common bonds that unite its people. Nigerians can forge a stronger, more resilient nation by celebrating their shared heritage and respecting their differences. Through dialogue, education, inclusivity, and a rejection of extremism, they can build a future where diversity is celebrated as a source of strength.

Open and respectful dialogue is the cornerstone of understanding and reconciliation. By engaging in conversations that promote empathy and mutual respect, Nigerians can bridge divides across religious, ethnic, regional, and political lines. Platforms for formal and informal dialogue offer opportunities for meaningful exchanges that foster unity amidst diversity.

Education is a powerful tool for dispelling stereotypes and fostering appreciation for diversity. By promoting educational initiatives highlighting Nigeria’s multifaceted heritage, individuals can better understand their fellow citizens’ perspectives and experiences. 

Nigerians should advocate for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities and representation across all sectors. By championing inclusivity, they can dismantle barriers and create pathways for collaboration and unity.

Nigerians must collectively reject extremism in all its forms and embrace moderation, tolerance, and compromise. They can build a more cohesive and harmonious society by fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding.

 Navigating Nigeria’s diverse landscape requires a commitment to dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity. By embracing diversity, fostering dialogue, promoting education, advocating for inclusivity, rejecting extremism, engaging in active citizenship, and cultivating unity in diversity, Nigerians can overcome their differences and build a more cohesive and resilient society.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes and can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Idris Ishaq Danwanka

Esteemed compatriots and guardians of our collective Northern ethos, in the wake of recent fiscal disclosures, a disconcerting schism has been unveiled that warrants our immediate attention and stringent critique. Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, erstwhile Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, has valiantly illuminated a disquieting anomaly within the fiscal year 2024 budget proceedings.

With the budget initially proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amounting to 24 trillion Naira, the subsequent and inexplicable inflation to 27 trillion Naira post-senate approval instigates profound perturbation and necessitates scrupulous examination.

The crux of the matter lies not solely within the numerical discrepancies but more so in the disheartening dearth of collective fortitude amongst our Northern sentinels. Senator Ningi’s resignation from the venerable chairmanship of our forum, following his laudable challenge to the opaque augmentation of the said budget, is a testament to a troubling lack of solidarity and a deviation from the path of unwavering patriotism that our region is historically known to uphold.

It is incumbent upon us, as the custodians of Arewa’s legacy, to transcend the paralyzing grip of fear that threatens our tenure within the senate.

The specter of suspension or dismissal should not deter us from our sacrosanct duty to the masses. We must rally behind the banner of transparency, accountability, and unwavering integrity that Senator Ningi has hoisted, even in the face of potential political ostracism.

The significance of unity cannot be overstated in our quest for regional and national development. A fragmented front is a disservice to the populace we have sworn to serve. It is only through a cohesive and unyielding stance that we can effectively steward the resources of our polity and engender a milieu where probity is not just expected but demanded.

Let us not shy away from our responsibility to interrogate and impugn any act that undermines the fiscal sanctity of our nation. To falter in this regard is to capitulate to the whims of those who may not prioritize the collective good over individual aggrandizement. The import of our togetherness is the bulwark against the forces of division and the cornerstone of our advocacy for the masses.

In conclusion, it is our imperative to eschew the parochial fears that stifle our voice and to stand shoulder to shoulder with those who dare to speak truth to power. The Arewa spirit is one of resilience, unity, and an unyielding commitment to the greater good. May we find the moral fortitude to embody these virtues and to restore the faith of our people in our esteemed institution.

Let us not delay in reclaiming our esteemed position as paragons of rectitude and as the vanguards of the people’s will. The time for action is now; the call for unity and patriotism, ever resonant.

Yours in service to our region and our nation;

Sen. Idris Ishaq Danwanka,
B.A. English Language and Literature, Federal University Dutse.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

President Bola Tinubu has taken a significant step towards enhancing regional relations by ordering the reopening of Nigeria’s land and air borders with the Republic of Niger.

Additionally, President Tinubu has instructed the lifting of various sanctions imposed on Niger, further strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations. 

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, titled ‘Nigeria opens land and air borders with Republic of Niger, lifts other sanctions,’ President Tinubu’s directive shows his government’s commitment to the course. 

Consequently, the President has directed that the following sanctions imposed on the Republic of Niger be lifted immediately: “Closure of land and air borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic, as well as ECOWAS no-fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger Republic. 

“Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between Nigeria and Niger, as well as a freeze of all service transactions, including utility services and electricity to the Niger Republic. 

“Freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks and freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger, state enterprises, and parastatals in commercial banks. 

“Suspension of Niger from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly EBID and BOAD. 

“Travel bans on government officials and their family members,” the statement read.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider reopening the country’s borders for the importation of foodstuff in order to address the current food crisis.

Governor Yusuf stressed that the closure of the borders has had a significant impact on the people of Kano State, leading to increased food prices and suffering.

In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf called for the reopening of the country’s borders to address the current food crisis.

The statement was released following a meeting between the governor and the Controller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at the Government House in Kano.

Governor Yusuf noted the critical condition of hunger and starvation in the country, which has been exacerbated by the sharp increase in commodity prices.

The statement read in part; “We wish appreciate the President’s intervention on the ongoing national food initiative which he considers Kano as the host for the initiative to be launched believing that the programme will cushion the effects of food scarcity if implemented”

Governor Yusuf stressed the urgent need for intervention, including the reopening of the borders to allow for the importation of commodities.

In his meeting with the Controller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Governor Yusuf highlighted the hardships faced by the people, particularly during Ramadan.

He stressed that the opening of the borders would be a crucial step in alleviating the distress of the people.

In addition to advocating for the reopening of the borders, Governor Yusuf commended the Customs Service’s initiative to distribute food items to the people of Kano, who have been facing hardship and hunger.

He urged the Customs Service to ensure that the food reaches those who are most affected. The governor also pledged his support to the Customs Service in its efforts to benefit the people of Kano and Nigeria as a whole.

In his response, Adeniyi emphasized the importance of building strong ties between the Nigerian Customs Service and the Kano community.

He emphasized the Service’s commitment to collaboration and constructive dialogue, and pledged to implement policies that would improve business processes and strengthen engagement with all stakeholders.

In addition to his interaction with stakeholders, the Controller General Adeniyi revealed that the Customs Service had made extensive plans to address the challenges of food scarcity and hardship in Kano. This includes the distribution of food items to the people of Kano.

By Umar Namadi

International Press Centre (IPC) held a two-day capacity-building workshop on combatting information disorder in democratic governance reporting using fact-checking and FOI tools. 

The workshop is being held as part of the activities under Component 4 (Support to Media) of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGN II) project. IPC is the lead implementing partner. 

The two-day workshop held at Bafra International Hotel in Kaduna had in attendance 40 participants across nine (9) states of Northern Nigeria (Abuja, Kaduna, Kastina, Niger, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Jos, Benue) who are new/mid-level journalists, community journalists, freelance journalists, etc. 

Participants were introduced to the rudiments of fact-checking using a tool and how to hold government and public institutions accountable for their activities using the FOIA (2011). 

As the program manager, Mrs Stella Nwofia, stated in her welcome address at the Sardauna Hall in the hotel, “The training program seeks to address a critical aspect highlighted in the EU-EOM final report on the 2023 general elections, which underlines that online social platforms played a significant role in both campaigning and public oversight of the electoral process. 

However, there were instances where these platforms were misused, either for campaigning lacking transparency or for creating misleading impressions of widespread support. 

Despite repeated warnings from government officials about the dangers of misinformation, various entities, including individuals associated with major political parties, disseminated false information online. 

Additionally, the report notes that major parties utilised paid advertising on online platforms. However, the full extent of this practice remained obscured due to a lack of transparency within these platforms.” 

She added that “The training program, which commenced in Ondo State as the initial phase and was followed by Port-Harcourt, is designed as a three-part series. Its primary goal is to provide journalists nationwide with essential tools, skills, and knowledge. The program aims to empower journalists to adeptly navigate the challenges of the digital era while maintaining standards of responsibility and ethical behaviour.

“Our goal is to empower journalists to uphold truth, advocate for integrity, and safeguard democracy by promoting a culture of critical thinking, fact verification, and media literacy.”

By Uzair Adam Imam

On orders from President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) will return seized food items to their rightful owners, on the condition that the items must be sold in Nigerian markets.

NCS Comptroller Adewale Adeniyi made this announcement yesterday in Katsina during meetings with residents of border communities at the Kongolam and Mai’Adua border posts.

The Customs chief mentioned that President Tinubu had made a decision to use his authority, not based on legal guidelines, “but rather reflecting the deep sense of generosity he holds toward Nigeria.”

Adeniyi said: “In doing so, he has directed that those food items that were going out of the country that have been seized in various border areas should be returned to the owners on the condition that those goods would be sold in the Nigerian markets.

“So, we will be monitoring you to know if there is a violation of this. Those food items will be returned, and it is a directive that we will pass them back into the Nigerian markets,” Adeniyi said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Northern senators have raised alarm over alleged budget padding amounting to N4 trillion, orchestrated by Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Akpabio, and his associates.

The senators, expressing concern over what they deem self-enrichment projects, called for transparency and accountability in budgetary processes. 

Under the leadership of Chairman Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi), members of the 58-member Forum convened a meeting with Mr. Akpabio at his Guest House in the Maitama District of Abuja on Thursday to address the issue. 

In an interview with BBC Hausa Service, Senator Ningi highlighted the discovery of two separate federal budgets being implemented.

He revealed, “For the last three months, we have employed private financial auditors to extensively examine the 2024 budget. We have uncovered significant unauthorized changes and additions in the budget that would have a widespread negative impact on the nation as a whole.” 

Senator Ningi stated the need for accountability, stating, “We are supposed to meet with the senate president and show him the irregularities we saw in the budget and let him know our concerns. We will not agree and support spending money on what we are not aware of.” 

Citing discrepancies in budget figures, he questioned, “We had a budget of N28 trillion but after our thorough checks we found out that it was a budget of N25 trillion. How and where did we get the additional N3 trillion from, what are we spending it for?” 

The senator pledged to seek clarification from President Bola Tinubu, stating, “We are going to meet with the president and show him, we will ask him if he is aware of all these things that are happening. We will show him and ask him if he is aware of it, and what he intends to do to those who partake in the whole manipulations and inclusions.” 

As the controversy unfolds, Nigerians await responses from relevant authorities and demand transparency in budget implementation to uphold the integrity of governance processes.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Bandits have reportedly abducted 15 tsangaya students in a fresh attack Saturday at Gada local government area of Sokoto state.

The Daily Reality learned that several other students are currently missing.

The students were said to have been abducted from their school around 1:am on Saturday.

The attack was coming after President Bola Tinubu on Thursday vowed to crush insecurity in the northern part of the country.

The President was said to have directed the security agents to fish out the perpetrators of these abductions.

The proprietor of the school, Liman Abubakar, told journalists that 15 students were unaccounted for so far after the early morning attack.

Abubakar narrated how the bandits invaded the town around 1 am, shot one person and abducted a woman.

“As they were leaving the town, they sighted our students rushing into their rooms and they kidnapped many of them.

“We have so far counted 15 who are missing and we are still searching for more,” he said

He added that this was not the first time the village was attacked by bandits.

Speaking with the journalists, the member, representing Gada-East Constituency at the state House of Assembly, Kabiru Dauda while has confirming the attack.

He stated that he received a call from the village around 2 am that it was invaded by bandits.

“I reached out to the local government authorities and security agencies and I am sure they are doing something about it,” he said.

However, the Sokoto State Police Command has denied awareness of the attack.