Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil
Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, has thrown his weight behind renewed calls for the creation of state police, describing it as a critical step toward addressing Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
In an open letter to the National Assembly dated 24th September 2025, the Speaker urged federal lawmakers to prioritize the safety and security of Nigerians by supporting constitutional reforms that would enable state governments to establish and control their own police forces.
According to him, despite huge investments in federal security agencies, insecurity continues to plague many parts of the country, particularly the North. He cited persistent attacks in Plateau communities such as Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Qua’an Pan, and Jos South.
“I write to you today as the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, representing the voices of my constituents and the broader Nigerian populace, The prevailing security challenges in our country demand urgent attention and collective action.”
“These attacks have caused immense hardship to survivors, affecting their health, education, food security, and psychological well-being,” he stated.
He argued that empowering state governors to take direct responsibility for internal security through the establishment of state police would allow for more rapid response and deeper community engagement.
The Speaker further appealed to federal lawmakers to rise above political divisions and embrace the reforms needed to protect lives across Nigeria.
“State police would enable improved community policing and a better understanding of local security dynamic. While concerns about abuse of power are valid, we can establish robust accountability mechanisms, training, and national frameworks to ensure legality and professionalism.”
“I urge you to consider the imperative of creating state police in Nigeria. This initiative has the potential to revolutionize our approach to security, bringing it closer to the people and enhancing our capacity to respond to threats,” he added.
He also acknowledged the efforts of former Governor Simon Bako Lalong, who supported state policing during his tenure, urging current leaders to build on that legacy.
The Speaker’s position aligns with growing calls across the country for decentralised policing structures in the face of persistent insecurity.
However, not all lawmakers from Plateau State share this view. Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, has openly opposed the creation of state police, warning that it could be misused by governors against political opponents.
He argued that Nigeria is not yet ripe for such decentralisation and instead called for reforms within the existing national policing framework.
