House of Representatives aspirant for the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo, has expressed strong support for the proposed State Police Reform championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the initiative as a bold and necessary step toward addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
Ogunbayo made this known while reacting to the President’s recent appeal to the Nigerian Senate to begin the constitutional process that would allow the creation of state-controlled police structures across the country.
According to the aspirant, the proposal reflects a proactive leadership approach aimed at strengthening security at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the issue, Ogunbayo noted that Nigeria’s current security framework requires urgent restructuring to effectively combat rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
He said State Police Reform would enable states and local communities to play more active roles in maintaining law and order.
The Ibadan-born politician explained that decentralised policing would provide quicker responses to security threats and improve intelligence gathering within communities.
He argued that local authorities often understand the terrain and security dynamics of their areas better than a centralised system, making State Police Reform a practical solution to persistent insecurity.
According to Ogunbayo, President Tinubu’s decision to push for constitutional backing for state policing demonstrates a commitment to long-term national stability.
He said the initiative aligns with the broader Bola Tinubu Security Plan, which seeks to modernise Nigeria’s governance and security structures.
He further stated that the success of any security system depends largely on collaboration between federal, state, and local institutions.
Ogunbayo expressed optimism that if properly implemented, State Police Reform would help reclaim rural communities that have been threatened by criminal groups and restore confidence among residents.
The aspirant also commended lawmakers for their willingness to consider constitutional changes that could strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
He urged members of the National Assembly to carefully examine the proposal and prioritise the safety of citizens in their deliberations.
While acknowledging that the concept of state policing has generated debate in the past, Ogunbayo insisted that the country’s evolving security realities demand innovative solutions.
He maintained that safeguards can be built into the system to prevent abuse while ensuring accountability and professionalism within state police structures.
“Security is the foundation upon which development thrives,” Ogunbayo said.
“When communities feel safe, economic activities flourish, investments increase, and citizens can pursue their aspirations without fear.”
He added that decentralised policing would also complement existing federal security agencies by distributing responsibilities more effectively.
According to him, the Nigeria Security architecture would become stronger when states are empowered to take proactive measures in protecting lives and property.
Ogunbayo emphasized that State Police Reform should not be viewed as a political issue but rather as a national necessity aimed at safeguarding citizens.
He called on political leaders, civil society organisations, and security experts to contribute to constructive discussions on how best to implement the initiative.
He also expressed confidence that Nigeria possesses the institutional capacity to successfully operate a decentralised policing system if adequate legal frameworks and oversight mechanisms are established.
As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, Ogunbayo believes that the conversation around Decentralised Policing represents an important step toward building a more responsive and effective security structure.
He concluded by reaffirming his support for the President’s reform agenda, noting that courageous policy decisions are essential for national progress.
Ogunbayo urged Nigerians to support initiatives that promote peace, stability, and sustainable development across the country.
According to the aspirant, the growing momentum behind State Police Reform indicates that the country is gradually embracing structural changes needed to ensure a safer and more prosperous future for all citizens.
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