The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly not to rush plans to amend the Constitution for the creation of state police. The council said Nigeria needs stronger security measures. However, it insisted that any decision on state police should follow wider consultations and national consensus.
Council raises concerns
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the SCSN said it has been monitoring the debate on state police. The council described the issue as one with serious implications for justice, national unity and the country’s future.
It noted that Nigeria is battling one of its worst security crises. According to the council, thousands of innocent people have died, while millions have been displaced from their communities. The council added that attacks have destroyed farms, businesses and other means of livelihood. It said many communities now live in constant fear.
‘State police is not a quick solution’
The SCSN said every sincere effort to improve security deserves support. However, it warned against presenting state police as a quick solution to Nigeria’s security challenges. According to the council, inadequate funding, corruption, poor welfare and a shortage of personnel continue to weaken the existing security system. It also blamed weak intelligence gathering, obsolete equipment and poor coordination among security agencies for the country’s worsening insecurity.
The council maintained that transferring policing powers to state governments would not automatically solve those problems. Instead, it urged the authorities to strengthen existing security institutions. It called for better funding, increased recruitment, modern equipment, stronger intelligence gathering, improved border security and greater professionalism.
Calls for wider consultations
The council also expressed concern over what it described as the speed of the constitutional amendment process. It said reforms affecting Nigeria’s security architecture should not be rushed. The SCSN called for extensive public consultations, transparent public hearings and broad national consensus before any amendment is approved.
According to the council, many Nigerians believe the current process has not reflected the openness and inclusiveness expected for such an important constitutional issue. However, it commended lawmakers who have continued to insist on due process and wider consultations. It said their position reflects the true spirit of democratic representation.
Warns against abuse
The SCSN warned that state police must never become a tool for political intimidation or discrimination. It noted that Nigeria’s religious, ethnic and political diversity requires a policing system that guarantees equal protection for every citizen.
The council therefore called for strong constitutional safeguards before establishing state police. It also recommended independent oversight institutions, transparent recruitment, professional training, effective complaint mechanisms, judicial and legislative oversight, sustainable funding and firm measures to prevent abuse of power.
The SCSN urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly and state governments to complete nationwide consultations before proceeding with any constitutional amendment. It also called on stakeholders to address the concerns raised by Nigerians before taking a final decision.
Finally, the council prayed that Almighty Allah would grant Nigeria’s leaders the wisdom and sincerity to make decisions that strengthen justice, preserve national unity and restore lasting peace and security.
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