Abuja – A former Inspector-General of Police, Sunday Ehindero, has expressed support for the introduction of state police in Nigeria, while cautioning that an expanding military presence within the country could undermine democratic governance.
Speaking on Saturday at the launch of two biographies of former IGP Usman Alkali Baba in Abuja, Ehindero noted that Nigeria’s security system requires reform to address emerging threats.
He said the military, though vital for national security, should focus on defending the country’s borders rather than being overly visible in domestic affairs.
“The security architecture of this country needs to be rejigged. With apologies to the military here, too much military visibility in a democracy is not good. They are doing marvellously, but their priority should be protecting our borders and maintaining territorial integrity,” Ehindero said.
On the idea of state police, which he had opposed for decades, the retired police chief said recent reforms convinced him to support the model.
“I have been against the establishment of state police for 30 years. But this time, seeing the details, I embraced it. It is a step in the right direction, considering banditry, terrorism, and other crimes,” he added.
Ehindero also rejected claims that Nigeria’s growing police force reflects poor governance, arguing that the country’s large population and persistent security challenges necessitate expansion.
He further urged the government to consider retired police officers for ambassadorial roles, citing previous instances where senior officers served as envoys.
Earlier, former IGP Usman Alkali Baba commended President Bola Tinubu for restoring police primacy in internal security, praising the recent directive withdrawing police personnel attached to “undeserving personalities.”
“I am profoundly grateful to President Tinubu for actions directed at restoring police primacy. This Presidential Order is historic, as previous attempts by IGPs did not achieve this,” Baba said.
Ehindero also defended the current National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, against criticism for being a former police officer, highlighting that several retired IGPs have historically held similar national security positions.
