Rethinking State Police in Nigeria

 Rethinking State Police: Is Implementation Realistic in Nigeria? 

Presently, I'm tempted to reconsider my support for state police, particularly after hearing the recent comments from Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebho. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, may be right in his concern that state governors could use this initiative to suppress opposing voices. 

When writers and public affairs commentators advocate for public policies, we often assume that all stakeholders share our level of understanding or intellectual exposure. However, there is a significant gap between the ideals we promote and the practical realities on the ground. A quick look at the behaviour of many public figures shows this disconnect. Their public statements and actions—especially the election-season attacks on former friends and family—are not only disgraceful but also reveal a blatant disregard for decency and intellectual discourse. This behaviour does not show strength; it exposes the moral bankruptcy behind their ambition. 

So, what should be the next step for us as writers and commentators? Should we adjust our approach to engage with the current intellectual and moral realities of today’s leadership, or should we hold firm to our principles and continue speaking the truth, even if it feels like we are doing so in isolation? 

One thing is clear: we are living in a different world, but with clarity, consistency, and conviction, we can still shape the generation of leadership to come. We must therefore tailor our advocacy with a clear understanding of the motivations of the principal actors. At the same time, we must not allow the progress we have made as the most educationally advanced state in Nigeria to be reversed. 

Whether we like it or not, those of us from Edo State are facing the prospect of an unprecedented, mob-style governance for the foreseeable future, in part because of Senator Adams Oshiomhole's political influence. This is a reality we cannot change for now. As we confront these challenges, may God bless the present governor with advisors of integrity, wisdom, and diplomatic humour, rather than gangsters. 

On a final, but crucial, note: there is a difference between a public misstep and unrepentantly maintaining an untenable position of moral righteousness. What well-informed individuals might tolerate as a gaffe could actually be a calculated and intentional act. This troubling trend is something Nigerians—not just those in Edo State—must be prepared to confront over the next four years. 

In conclusion, I believe that the meek and the righteous will always be protected by God. 

Barr Alex Ehi Aidaghese contributed this piece from Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.