IGP says police are not responsible for delay in setting up state police.

The Inspector‑General of Police (IG), Olatunji Disu, denied that the Nigeria Police Force was responsible for the delay in establishing state police forces.

Speaking at a “Stakeholders meeting on security in Anambra” in Awka on Tuesday, Disu was represented by Deputy Inspector‑General Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, who is in charge of the South East.

He acknowledged that creating state police would strengthen the national police’s efforts to prevent and combat crime.

“The power to create the state police is a constitutional issue that resides with the national and state assemblies,” he said. “When the National Assembly amends the law that establishes the NPF, two‑thirds of the State Assemblies must also consent.”

Disu urged stakeholders—including security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, civil society organisations, the business community, and others—to remain patient, as the National Assembly is working to establish the state police.

He called for greater collaboration with stakeholders to enhance national security from the grassroots, and asked them to provide timely information on suspected criminal activity in their areas to enable prompt intervention.

According to Disu, more cooperation with police and other security agencies is essential, because security agencies alone cannot secure the country.

Commissioner of Police for the Anambra Command, Ikioye Orutugu, also spoke, noting that security is essential for societal development.

“Security is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration, trust and continuous dialogue with stakeholders from all sectors,” he said. “This collective collaboration has helped reduce crime in Anambra.”

Orutugu called for strong synergy on security matters with all stakeholders to prevent and tackle crime.

Some stakeholders praised the state government and State Assembly for enacting a law to establish local vigilance groups—Udogachi and Agunechemba—to aid the police in preventing and combating crime.

They urged the federal government to expedite the establishment of state police to improve national security from the grassroots.

The stakeholders also called for better equipment, training and improved welfare for police and vigilance groups to enhance security across the country. (NAN)