Fresh developments on Thursday indicated that both the federal and state governments are still undecided on the controversial issue of state police. During its recent meeting held at the Presidential Villa, the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, once again failed to deliberate on the matter. Although governors present at the meeting observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims of recent deadly attacks in Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states, which claimed nearly 200 lives, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri confirmed that the topic of state policing was not included on the meeting’s agenda.
It is worth recalling that NEC, under Vice President Shettima's leadership, had earlier promised to reach a conclusive decision on the issue when the council reconvened. Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani had previously stated that all 36 governors supported the establishment of state police and had assured the public of a firm decision once the council resumed deliberations.
However, Governor Diri clarified that while the topic was initially scheduled for discussion, it was pushed aside due to extensive presentations on other critical national issues.
Meanwhile, amid President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip to France, violent attacks continued to ravage parts of the country, especially in Plateau, Benue, and Kwara states. These assaults, largely attributed to suspected herdsmen, have affected at least 22 states under the current administration.
Although most of the attacks have occurred in the North Central region, other areas in both the northern and southern parts of the country have also experienced similar violence.
In Plateau State, the Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas suffered severe attacks, resulting in over 100 deaths and the displacement of more than 2,000 people, according to emergency officials. Similarly, Benue State witnessed horrific violence as more than 100 residents were killed in coordinated assaults on communities in Ukum and Logo local government areas.