The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has suggested to the Federal Government the consolidation of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) into the police force for enhanced efficiency.
Egbetokun made this proposal during the National Dialogue on State Policing organized by the House of Representatives in Abuja on Monday, themed “Pathways to Peace: Reimagining Policing in Nigeria.” Represented by Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Ben Okoro, Egbetokun argued that the NSCDC and FRSC duplicate the functions of the police force.
He emphasized that Nigeria is not yet prepared for state police and urged proponents of state policing to focus on integrating the NSCDC and FRSC with the police for optimal effectiveness. Egbetokun highlighted the challenges faced by the police, including inadequate training, manpower shortages, and poor infrastructure such as dilapidated barracks, negatively affecting officers’ performance.
Regarding calls for state police, Egbetokun expressed reservations, citing concerns that state police could be exploited by governors to suppress opposition and create jurisdictional conflicts. He doubted the capability of state police to combat serious crimes like terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry due to resource constraints.
Egbetokun emphasized the importance of enhancing personnel training and securing adequate funding to modernize policing and maintain internal security. Meanwhile, Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, stressed the need for a comprehensive security framework to address escalating security challenges.
Represented by Maj. Gen. Kunle Ariyibi, Musa emphasized collaboration and a shared commitment to develop policies and strategies ensuring the security and rights of all Nigerians. He advocated for an inclusive and responsive security framework capable of safeguarding the nation’s freedoms and liberties.
