The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has asked the National Assembly to amend parts of the proposed State Police Bill, warning that the current version could leave state police under the control of the Federal Government instead of giving states the level of independence needed to improve security. The group made its position known after a caucus meeting held at the Akure residence of its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to forward the State Police Bill to the National Assembly. It also praised lawmakers for beginning the process of considering the legislation.
Despite supporting the bill, the group said some sections should be reviewed because they would allow the Federal Government to retain too much influence over state police operations. According to Afenifere, state police should operate with greater autonomy if they are to effectively address insecurity across the country.
The group also urged the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly to move policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List. It said such a step would allow both the Federal Government and state governments to share responsibility for policing and improve security across the federation.
Afenifere also expressed concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The group said it was troubling that the victims had remained with their captors for about 50 days without being rescued. It called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their release as quickly as possible.
The organisation appealed to governors in Yoruba-speaking states, including Kogi and Kwara, to take stronger measures to improve security, especially in areas where residents face difficulties moving freely because of criminal activities.
It also advised political parties and their supporters to conduct campaigns peacefully, warning against violence, thuggery and attacks that could lead to loss of lives during the election period.
Afenifere praised members of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices in defending the country and sympathised with families of security personnel who lost their lives or suffered injuries while carrying out their duties. It urged the government to improve the welfare of security personnel, provide better equipment and adopt both military and non-military approaches to tackling insecurity.
The group further called on the authorities to identify individuals and communities assisting criminal groups. It also asked security agencies to investigate allegations that illegal mining activities may be linked to the displacement of residents from their communities by bandits.
Afenifere renewed its call for the restructuring of Nigeria, saying the policy remains one of the best ways to strengthen governance and promote national development. It urged President Tinubu to take additional steps toward achieving that objective.