CLEEN Foundation Inaugurates Civil Society Expert Working Group on State Police

As debates on state policing gain momentum in Nigeria, CLEEN Foundation convened civil society leaders, policy experts, and development partners to critically examine both the opportunities and risks associated with decentralizing policing powers. Chaired by Prof. Etannibi Alemika, the session provided a platform for in-depth reflection on the constitutional, legal, and institutional reforms required to guide the development of an effective and accountable state policing framework. Participants interrogated existing provisions within Nigeria’s legal architecture, while also drawing on comparative experiences from other federal systems to identify models that balance local responsiveness with national cohesion.
Discussions emphasized that while state policing could enhance responsiveness to local security dynamics, it also raises significant concerns around political interference, abuse of power, and uneven standards of professionalism. Participants underscored the need for strong oversight mechanisms, clear lines of accountability, and robust safeguards to protect civil liberties and prevent misuse. The dialogue further highlighted the importance of inclusive policy design, citizen engagement, and sustained capacity-building to ensure that any emerging framework not only improves public safety but also strengthens public trust in law enforcement institutions.