The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, has urged the National Assembly to swiftly approve the establishment of state police as a decisive step to tackling Nigeria’s deepening security crisis.
In an open letter to federal lawmakers on Thursday, Daniel stated that the current security system has failed to shield citizens from recurring violence, killings, and forced displacement, particularly in northern states.
He pointed to the worsening situation in Plateau communities such as Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Qua’an Pan, and Jos South, where repeated attacks have claimed lives, disrupted education, triggered food shortages, and inflicted long-term psychological trauma.
“The creation of state police is a critical step towards addressing these security challenges. By empowering state governors to take responsibility for maintaining law and order, we can ensure rapid response and effective community policing,” Daniel said.
While acknowledging fears of potential abuse of power, the Speaker argued that strong accountability measures and national oversight can prevent misuse and ensure state police function within legal boundaries.
He appealed to senators and members of the House of Representatives to put the safety of Nigerians above politics, recalling that former Plateau Governor Simon Bako Lalong had also advocated for the initiative during his time in office.
“The interest and survival of our people in Plateau State should guide our actions,” he emphasized, urging quick legislative action to restore peace and safeguard lives.
