Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued what many observers see as a stern warning to Nigeria’s governors, cautioning them against turning the proposed state police structure into a political weapon once it becomes operational.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday as the National Assembly moved closer to approving state police, Akpabio openly reminded governors that the same security apparatus they help create today could one day be used against them when they leave office.
In remarks that sent a strong message across the country’s political class, Akpabio stressed that no governor should assume permanent control over power, insisting that every occupant of Government House will eventually return to private life.
“Many of us like to go back home after we are through here, without being afraid of the state police,” Akpabio declared, adding that current governors should not fear the very institution they are creating if their actions in office are above board.
His comments come as President Bola Tinubu formally transmitted a Constitution Alteration Bill to the National Assembly seeking the creation of state police, a move supporters believe will strengthen the fight against insecurity but critics fear could empower governors to intimidate opponents.
Akpabio appeared to acknowledge those fears, warning that conscience and accountability would ultimately catch up with public officials who attempt to abuse the system.
In a statement widely interpreted as a caution against political persecution, the Senate President noted that governors would someday face life outside power, where they could become vulnerable to the same institutions they once controlled.
He further revealed that safeguards would be built into the framework through constitutional amendments and an accompanying Act of Parliament designed to prevent misuse and excesses.
The Senate is expected to consider and pass the state police bill on Wednesday, marking what could become one of the most significant security reforms since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.
