Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, has written to the National Assembly declaring full support for the establishment of state police as a solution to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
In an open letter addressed to both the Senate and House of Representatives, Gapyil argued that the existing security architecture had failed to protect lives and property despite huge federal allocations, as killings, banditry, and violent attacks persist nationwide.
He maintained that a state police structure would empower governors to respond swiftly to threats using local officers familiar with their terrain. According to him, agitation for state policing has gone beyond Plateau, becoming a national demand driven by rising violence and communal conflicts.
“The prevailing security challenges in our country demand urgent attention and collective action. The creation of state police is a critical step towards addressing these challenges. By empowering state governors to take responsibility for law and order, we can respond more effectively to threats,” his letter read in part.
The Speaker lamented that several Plateau communities—including Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Qua’an Pan, and Jos South—have suffered persistent attacks leading to deaths, displacement, and destruction of livelihoods.
While acknowledging concerns over possible abuse of power, Gapyil insisted such risks could be curtailed through strict accountability measures, national oversight, and robust training programmes.
He urged federal lawmakers to rise above political sentiments and prioritise citizens’ safety, warning that insecurity has already undermined education, health, food security, and the psychological stability of victims.
“The interest and survival of Plateau people must guide our actions. Our words and decisions have a way of swaying followers and must never fuel further conflict,” he cautioned