State Police: Association Calls For Public Memoranda

The Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) has called on Nigerians to seize what it describes as a historic opportunity to shape the country’s security future by submitting memoranda and policy proposals on the proposed establishment of state police.

The association said active public participation is crucial to ensuring that the proposed National Policing Bill reflects the realities of communities across the country and provides an effective framework for tackling Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Festus Fifen, and Secretary, Peter Ireh, CCAN urged citizens, legal practitioners, civil society organisations, security experts, academics and other stakeholders to take advantage of the invitation by the Presidential Working Group on the proposed National Policing Bill to contribute to the reform process.

According to the association, the move toward state policing has gone beyond political discourse and has become an urgent national security imperative that requires broad-based input.

CCAN noted that the Presidential Working Group’s decision to invite public submissions offers Nigerians the chance to influence the legal and operational structure of a decentralised policing system that promotes efficiency, accountability and respect for human rights.

Part of the statement read that “The establishment of state police is no longer just a political debate but a necessity for our national security.

“It is important that this reform is community-driven and inclusive. We therefore call on all Nigerians, including legal experts, civil society organisations and security enthusiasts, to submit their memoranda to the Presidential Working Group within the stipulated period.”

The association stressed that wide-ranging contributions would help the Working Group develop a comprehensive National Policing Bill capable of providing a clear roadmap for state policing while ensuring effective collaboration with the federal police.

CCAN also urged the Presidential Working Group to maintain transparency throughout the process and ensure that all constructive contributions are carefully considered before the final draft of the bill is produced.

The association expressed optimism that robust public participation would strengthen the proposed legislation and lay the foundation for a more responsive and community-oriented policing system.

“By participating in this submission process, Nigerians are not just contributing to a bill; they are helping to design a safer future for their communities,” the statement added.