Fresh indications emerged on Thursday that the federal and state governments remain undecided on the contentious issue of state policing.
This development came as the National Economic Council, NEC, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, sidestepped any deliberation on the matter during its meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Although governors in attendance observed a minute’s silence for victims of the recent deadly attacks in Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states, where nearly 200 lives were lost, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri confirmed that state policing did not feature on the NEC’s agenda.
It will be recalled that NEC, under Vice President Kashim Shettima’s leadership, had previously assured that a final resolution on the matter would be reached upon reconvening.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani had earlier declared that all 36 states were favourably disposed to the establishment of state police. He assured the public that the Council would issue a definitive pronouncement once it reconvened.
However, Governor Diri explained that, although the issue of state policing was slated for discussion, it was deferred due to lengthy presentations on other pressing national matters.
It is worth noting that while President Bola Tinubu was away in France recently, parts of the country, particularly Plateau, Benue, and Kwara States, were embroiled in a wave of violent attacks by gunmen believed to be herdsmen.
These herdsmen-related attacks have, under the current administration, affected no fewer than 22 states across Nigeria. While predominantly concentrated in the North Central geopolitical zone, the violence has spread to other regions, including parts of both North and South.
In Plateau State, Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas were plunged into turmoil, with over 100 people reportedly killed and more than 2,000 displaced, according to emergency responders.
Benue State was also the scene of unspeakable horror, as over 100 residents were brutally slain by marauding attackers who descended upon communities in Ukum and Logo local government areas.
