Osun APC Endorses State Police, Urges Clear Working Framework

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has thrown his weight behind the establishment of state police, describing it as a major step toward improving Nigeria’s security architecture. He emphasized that the success of the initiative would depend on strict adherence to a transparent operational framework and the deployment of modern technology.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, Oyintiloye commended the National Assembly for passing the State Police Bill, which seeks to amend the Constitution to allow states to form their own police forces. He said the reform was long overdue and represented a “historic milestone” in Nigeria’s efforts to build a more responsive and community-driven security system.

Oyintiloye, a former member of the Osun State House of Assembly, noted that the introduction of state police would help address rising insecurity by enabling quicker response to local threats. He urged that the implementation process must prioritize accountability, professionalism, and collaboration between federal and state authorities.

“Security is most effective when it is locally driven, intelligence-led, and supported by the people,” Oyintiloye said. “The framework must ensure transparency and prevent abuse of power.”

He also called for the integration of digital surveillance tools, including drones and CCTV cameras, to enhance intelligence gathering and operational efficiency. According to him, technology and community participation would be key to the success of the new policing model.

Oyintiloye praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the constitutional amendment and commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers for their bipartisan cooperation on the bill. He said the reform reflected the government’s commitment to strengthening internal security and empowering local communities.

The APC stalwart further advocated a multi-layered security structure, combining state police with highway patrols and forest guards to tackle banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes. He argued that locally recruited officers would better understand community dynamics and help restore public confidence in law enforcement.

“For years, I have remained a vocal advocate of state police because Nigeria’s evolving security realities require a more localized approach,” he added.

Oyintiloye urged traditional rulers, youth groups, and community leaders to play active roles in intelligence sharing and crime prevention. He said regional initiatives such as Amotekun had already demonstrated the effectiveness of community-based security models.

He concluded that the establishment of state police should not be seen merely as a legislative victory but as a collective national achievement that could pave the way for a safer and more peaceful Nigeria.