August 2, 2026 | 6:32 pm
The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, SCSN, has warned the Federal Government and National Assembly not to rush the constitutional amendment to establish state police. In a statement on Sunday signed by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Ahmad, the council said a reform of such magnitude needs wider national consultation before any decision is taken.The SCSN acknowledged that Nigeria’s security situation is dire and demands urgent action. However, it cautioned that state police should not be treated as a quick solution.
“Nigeria is facing one of its worst security crises, with thousands killed, millions displaced, and farms, businesses and livelihoods destroyed,” the council said. It added that the problems with the current security system are rooted in poor funding, corruption, low welfare, inadequate personnel, outdated equipment, weak intelligence and poor coordination.“The urgent task should be to comprehensively reform and strengthen existing security agencies through better funding, recruitment, modern technology, intelligence, border security, accountability and professionalism,” the statement read.
According to the council, simply handing policing powers to states will not fix these structural problems.The SCSN also faulted what it called the speed at which the National Assembly is pushing the amendment. It said many Nigerians feel the process has lacked openness, inclusiveness and proper public engagement.The council warned that without strong constitutional safeguards, state police could be misused by state governments for political intimidation and discrimination.Given Nigeria’s religious, ethnic and political diversity, the SCSN said any policing model must guarantee equal protection for all citizens.It therefore recommended the following before state police is introduced:
1. Independent oversight bodies.
2Transparent, merit-based recruitment
3. Professional training and welfare
4. Effective complaint channels
5. Judicial and legislative oversight
6. Sustainable funding
7. Constitutional protection against abuse
The council urged President Bola Tinubu, NASS leadership, state governors and other stakeholders to carry out thorough nationwide consultations and address public concerns before amending the constitution on state police.
It prayed that leaders act with wisdom and sincerity to ensure decisions promote justice, unity, and lasting peace.Background The debate on state police has grown louder as the FG and NASS consider constitutional changes to decentralize policing amid rising banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and communal clashes.Supporters say state police will allow faster local responses and reduce pressure on the Nigeria Police Force.
Critics fear governors could use it to target opponents or influence elections if proper checks are not in place.The proposal continues to divide governors, lawmakers, civil society, religious groups and security experts, with many calling for deeper reforms and stronger legal protections first.
