Senator Suleiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila has issued a strong appeal to the Northern Governors Forum and Northern Nigeria Traditional Leaders Forum regarding the implementation of state policing in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for an inclusive framework that serves all citizens equally.
In a formal letter addressed to Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who chairs the Northern Governors Forum, and the Sultan of Sokoto, chairman of the Northern Nigeria Traditional Leaders Forum, Senator Sumaila warned against potential misuse of state police for political, religious, or social discrimination.
"I wholeheartedly support the call for the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of legislation that will establish state police," Sumaila stated. "This initiative is critical to enhancing the security framework in our states, enabling more localized and effective responses to threats."
The senator, who represents Kano South Senatorial District, emphasized that the state policing structure must be built on principles of transparency, trust, and fairness to avoid exacerbating vulnerabilities or sowing discord among Nigeria's diverse communities.
Sumaila acknowledged the critical security challenges facing Northern Nigeria, including significant loss of lives and property destruction. He commended both forums for their ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region, noting that these challenges "are not just statistics; they represent real human suffering."
The senator highlighted the strategic importance of traditional institutions in the process, telling traditional rulers: "Your closeness to the people and your influence in our communities are invaluable assets in navigating these complexities."
Senator Sumaila pledged his active contribution to legislative efforts toward establishing state police, describing it as a crucial step in addressing the region's security challenges. He called for unity among all stakeholders, emphasizing that sustained collaboration is essential to overcoming Northern Nigeria's longstanding security crisis.
The senator's intervention comes amid ongoing national debates about decentralizing Nigeria's police structure to improve security responses at the state level, a proposal that has gained momentum as various regions continue to face diverse security challenges.
