C Abia ready for state police – Otti

Gov. Alex Otti, has indicated the preparedness of Abia State Government to launch state police.

This is as a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Azubuko Uda, has thrown his weight behind the creation of state police, declaring that Abia is well-positioned to take the lead in implementing the initiative.

Reacting to Vanguard inquiry on the subject matter during a media parley, Gov. Otti said machinery had been put in motion to work out details for it.

The debate for state police received the blessing of the Presidency recently following the greenlight for any willing states to establish their own State Police.

He said state’s new manager for Home Land Security is working towards actualizing the proposal.

We are getting ready to launch it once the whistle is blown”, Gov. Otti declared.

Uda argued that decentralising policing would significantly enhance security coordination and responsiveness at the state level, stressing that governors, as chief security officers, should have greater control over policing structures.

“We are number one state. We should be the first to say that we are ready for state police because it will help us organise our security very well,” he said.

According to him, granting states control over their police formations would ensure better funding, improved welfare, and operational efficiency

The governor, who funds the police, will ensure they do not suffer manpower shortages, logistics challenges, poor remuneration, or lack of motivation,” Uda stated.

He further highlighted Abia’s strategic importance as a commercial hub, particularly the city of Aba, which attracts traders from across Africa, including countries such as Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger.

Uda maintained that a state-controlled policing system would better secure such economic corridors and boost investor confidence.

Describing the proposed reform as “a welcome development,” the former DIG noted that state police would also address the growing apathy among South-East youths towards recruitment into federal security agencies.

Many young people are no longer interested in joining the army or the police. The security challenges, especially insurgency, discourage them from leaving their regions to fight in distant areas,” he explained

He attributed the declining interest partly to a lack of trust in leadership, alleging that some individuals in positions of authority have been accused of complicity in acts of terrorism.

“When there are allegations that people in power are involved or are not doing enough to tackle insecurity, it affects morale. Youths will naturally be reluctant to enlist,” he said.

Uda, however, cautioned that the transition to state policing must be carefully planned, inclusive, and driven by expertise.

“It has to be properly planned. Experienced and knowledgeable stakeholders must be engaged to ensure that the best framework is developed for a seamless transition,” he added.

The debate over state police has gained renewed momentum amid rising security challenges across Nigeria, with proponents arguing that decentralisation remains key to effective law enforcement.