Seyi Law Opposes the Establishment of State Police

Comedian and newly appointed Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment & Tourism to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Seyi Law, has voiced strong opposition to the creation of state police in Nigeria.

Taking to his X handle, Seyi Law expressed grave concerns about the possible misuse of state police by Nigerian governors. In a striking statement, he claimed that the governors could potentially abuse such powers to the extent of organizing the execution of the President. His post read: “Imagine State Police in the hands of some Governors. They will personally organise the execution of the President.”

The proposal to establish state police has been a topic of heated debate in Nigeria. Proponents argue that it would enhance security by allowing more localized and responsive policing. However, opponents fear that state police could lead to the abuse of power by governors and other state officials, exacerbating issues of corruption and human rights violations.

Seyi Law’s comments were in reaction to recent reports that the 33 Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State have collectively decided to break away from the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). This decision has been seen by some as a move towards greater autonomy and by others as a potential precursor to power abuse at the state level.

Seyi Law insinuated that the decision by the Oyo State Local Government Chairmen is indicative of the kind of power abuse that could occur if state police were established.

He suggested that Nigerian governors, who already wield significant power, could misuse state police forces to further their own interests, undermining the rule of law and democratic principles.