Herdsmen Urge Northern Governors To Abandon State Police Plans

KADUNA, NIGERIA – The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has issued a strong rebuke against the proposed establishment of state police forces in Northern Nigeria, arguing that it would exacerbate existing security challenges rather than alleviate them.

In a statement released by National President Khalil Bello, KACRAN voiced significant concerns over the financial burden, potential for political abuse, and impact on national security.

KACRAN highlights the substantial financial implications of establishing state police forces, estimating initial setup costs for a state with 15 local governments could reach ₦10 billion, rising to ₦30 billion for larger states like Kano.

Ongoing operational costs, including salaries, are projected at ₦3 billion monthly. Bello argues that these massive expenditures would divert crucial resources from essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, hindering the region’s development.

Further concerns center around job security and the potential for increased crime rates. KACRAN fears that budget cuts or administrative changes could lead to job losses among newly recruited officers, potentially pushing them towards criminal activity.

The association also worries about the impact on the existing Nigeria Police Force (NPF), with the potential drain of experienced officers weakening national policing efforts.

A key concern highlighted by Bello is the susceptibility of state police to political manipulation. He warns that such forces could be exploited to serve the interests of local political leaders, potentially leading to the persecution of opposition parties and undermining the rule of law.

KACRAN directly challenges proponents of state police in the North, posing several pointed questions, particularly considering the ongoing debate surrounding the ₦70,000 minimum wage.

The association questions the funding source for state police, the consequences of discontinued federal funding, the impact on civil servants and retirees in the event of budget deficits, and the long-term consequences of a large state police retirement pool.

KACRAN urged for a shift in focus from relying on force to addressing the root causes of insecurity through investment in social services and economic empowerment initiatives.

The statement concludes with a firm call for Northern governors to reconsider the proposal, urging them to prioritise sustainable solutions that address the underlying issues driving insecurity rather than adopting a potentially counterproductive measure with significant financial and social consequences.