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Governor Alex Otti has expressed readiness for Abia State to establish its own state police.
Otti disclosed this during a media interaction, stating that the government has already set machinery in motion to work out the details for the initiative.
He noted that the state’s Homeland Security leadership is actively working toward actualising the proposal.
“We are getting ready to launch it once the whistle is blown,” the governor said.
The renewed push for state police follows recent approval by the Presidency allowing willing states to establish their own policing systems.
A retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Azubuko Uda, also backed the proposal, describing Abia as well-positioned to take the lead.
According to him, decentralising policing would improve security coordination and responsiveness, while giving governors greater control over security operations in their states.
“We are number one state. We should be the first to say that we are ready for state police because it will help us organise our security very well,” he said.
Uda added that state-controlled policing would ensure better funding, improved welfare, and enhanced operational efficiency.
He highlighted Abia’s commercial importance, especially the city of Aba, which attracts traders from across Africa, noting that a state police system would better secure such economic hubs and boost investor confidence.
The former DIG also pointed to declining interest among South-East youths in joining federal security agencies, attributing it partly to security risks and lack of trust in leadership.
“When there are allegations that people in power are involved or are not doing enough to tackle insecurity, it affects morale. Youths will naturally be reluctant to enlist,” he said.
He, however, cautioned that the transition to state policing must be carefully planned and involve experienced stakeholders to ensure a smooth and effective implementation.
