The Jigawa State House of Assembly has assured that the proposed establishment of state police is not intended to witch-hunt any of the opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Speaker of the House, Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, gave the assurance on Wednesday while explaining the Assembly's recent approval of the constitutional amendment bill seeking the establishment of state police in Nigeria.
DAILY POST reports that the Jigawa State House of Assembly approved the constitutional amendment bill transmitted to it by the National Assembly.
Dangyatin said the establishment of state police was aimed at addressing the growing security challenges facing the country rather than serving political interests.
According to him, Nigerians have continued to express concern over the security situation in the country, making it necessary for governments at all levels to strengthen security arrangements.
"People are complaining about the current security situation in the country. Therefore, the creation of state police will help improve security across the country," he said.
The Speaker explained that security remained a collective responsibility, stressing the need for collaboration between the federal and state governments and other stakeholders to curtail the problem.
"Security is everyone's responsibility. Therefore, federal and state governments, as well as individuals, must work together to improve the security situation in the country," he added.
Dangyatin further explained that the proposed state police would create employment opportunities for Nigerians, particularly youths.
He said the constitutional amendment bill also provided for the establishment of state police commissions to coordinate recruitment and other activities of the proposed security outfits.
The Speaker noted that state Houses of Assembly supporting the bill recognised its importance in addressing security challenges at the grassroots level.
He also assured that the Jigawa State Government would provide adequate funding for the proposed state police to ensure its effective operation in line with the provisions of the constitutional amendment bill.
2027: State police not meant to witch-hunt opposition – Jigawa Speaker