Abuja: The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has expressed that President Bola Tinubu's endorsement of state police represents a significant advancement in Nigeria's internal security strategy.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the TMSG highlighted in a statement signed by Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo that this move aligns with Tinubu's long-standing advocacy for a decentralized policing system. The group acknowledged previous unsuccessful attempts to establish a legal framework for state police, notably in 2018 and 2020, led by then Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, which failed to materialize.

TMSG pointed out that with Tinubu's public endorsement, the situation appears more promising as both chambers of the National Assembly are currently working on a bill supporting state police. The group sees the President's position as a direct signal to federal lawmakers to expedite the amendment of section 214 of the 1999 constitution, which currently restricts policing to a federal system.

The statement emphasized that Tinubu's backing is unprecedented for a sitting President, contrasting with past leaders who only supported such reforms post-tenure. They noted former President Goodluck Jonathan's advocacy after leaving office and former President Muhammadu Buhari's opposition during his tenure, citing concerns over state government influence and potential abuse.

The TMSG expressed confidence in Tinubu's ability to implement safeguards against the misuse of state police, suggesting that the process might be managed by a central body to maintain uniform standards and prevent political manipulation by state governors.

The group reiterated that while political concerns might arise, they should not impede the necessary security reforms. They believe that the introduction of state police would fulfill its intended purposes and could become one of the significant legacies of the Bola Tinubu administration.