Omoyele Sowore has warned against rushing the proposed state police bill, arguing that such a major constitutional reform should be delayed until after the 2027 general elections to prevent possible political misuse.
The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has called on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to suspend discussions on the proposed state police bill until after the 2027 general elections, warning that the reform could be vulnerable to political abuse if implemented before the polls.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television's The Morning Brief, Sowore argued that while the idea of state policing deserves serious national consideration, the timing of the current legislative process is inappropriate because the country is already approaching another election cycle.
According to him, the proposed legislation represents one of the most significant constitutional reforms Nigeria has considered in recent years and should not be hurried through the legislative process without broad public consultation.
Sowore maintained that Nigerians should be given sufficient time to debate the implications of state policing, contribute their views and examine the long-term impact the reform could have on the country's security architecture before any final decision is taken.
He also questioned the decision to accelerate the bill at a period when political parties are preparing for the 2027 general elections, expressing concern that introducing state-controlled police formations shortly before nationwide elections could create opportunities for political interference.
The AAC presidential candidate further argued that many state governors should not yet be entrusted with direct control over police personnel, warning that some could misuse such powers against political opponents or during election campaigns if adequate safeguards are not established.
Sowore insisted that the conversation on state policing should continue after the elections, when Nigerians would be better positioned to examine the proposal objectively without the pressure and political tension associated with an election season. He said delaying implementation would allow for wider consultations and a more transparent constitutional amendment process.
The comments come as calls for the establishment of state police continue to grow across the country following worsening insecurity in several states. Supporters of the proposal argue that decentralising policing would improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing and enable quicker responses to local security threats.
President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly expressed support for the establishment of state police and has directed lawmakers to expedite work on the necessary legislation. A presidential working group headed by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila is also working on the legal framework required for implementation.
However, the proposal has continued to generate mixed reactions. While many security experts consider state policing necessary to address Nigeria's growing security challenges, critics believe stronger constitutional safeguards, independent oversight and broad public consensus are essential before such a far-reaching reform is implemented.