The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris has condemned ongoing efforts by state governors to establish state police to assist in effective policing of the country. The IGP's latest position it at variance with earlier reports that he was in attendance at last Governors Forum meeting where the decision was reached by the governor to set up a Committee that would work out modalities that will facilitate the establishment of state police.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relation Officer, Jimoh Moshood, the IGP was quoted as saying "I sincerely believe that the Federal Police is still the best for the country and with improved funding the challenges of crime will be addressed. Those agitating for state police should consider the level of our political maturity"
“It is my sincere believe that once the Police Trust Fund Bill is passed into law, the necessary finances required to effectively police the nation will be available”
The IGP further lamented that the country was currently operating at the ratio of 1:602 contrary to the United Nation ratio of 1:400. He also called for the establishment of Nigeria Police Broadcasting Service (NPBS) to assist the Force in sensitization campaigns and breach the gap between the police and the general public.
"With the current ratio of 1: 602 the Nigeria Police is operating far below the United Nation’s ratio. About 10,000 police officers have been recruited recently to fill the gap but this is still a far cry. To meet up with the UN ratio of 1:400, the Nigeria police requires additional 155,000 Police Officers for the next five years,“ the IGP added.
