‘State Police Should Never Become Instrument Of Political Oppression’ – Natasha Warns

Senator representing Kogi Central at the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has cautioned against using state police as a tool for political intimidation or executive intimidation.

NEWSNGR reports that Natasha made this known at a conference on “Building a National Consensus for State Police and National Security,” organised by ARISE News and THISDAY Newspaper in Abuja on Thursday.

The conference brought together ministers, security chiefs, civil society leaders, academics, and private-sector stakeholders to examine constitutional amendments, operational models, funding mechanisms, and accountability frameworks for state policing.

Speaking at the event, Natasha urged the National Assembly to incorporate robust constitutional safeguards into any legislation establishing the proposed policing system.

According to the lawmaker, while support for decentralised policing is growing, adequate safeguards must be put in place to prevent abuse at the state level.

Natasha also stressed the importance of sustainable funding, warning that inadequate financial support could undermine the effectiveness of state police.

She said, “State police should never become an instrument of political oppression or executive intimidation.

“We must build a policing system that serves the people, protects democracy and remains accountable to the rule of law.

“Funding is one of the most important aspects the Federal Government must address. Without adequate and sustainable financing, state police will struggle to deliver on their constitutional responsibilities.”

Senator Natasha further commended President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police for their prompt and decisive actions against security challenges.

She added, “I commend Mr President and the Inspector-General of Police for their prompt and decisive actions on security issues. That kind of responsiveness builds public confidence.”