Lagos State Attorney-General Affirms Readiness For State Police Establishment

Lagos State Attorney-General Affirms Readiness For State Police Establishment

Lawal Pedro, the Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice in Lagos, has declared that Lagos State is fully prepared to institute its own state police force, signaling a significant move towards decentralized law enforcement…..READ ALSO Netizens React As EFCC Withdraws Money Laundering Charges Against Former Lagos Attorney General, Olasupo Shasore

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Pedro emphasized that Lagos possesses the requisite personnel and infrastructure to effectively manage its policing operations. He stressed the importance of having law enforcement officers who are intimately familiar with the local environment and its dynamics.

Pedro highlighted the longstanding advocacy for state or community policing, citing its potential to address security challenges more effectively. He lauded the existing Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps, equipped and primed for action, including the use of body cameras.

The Attorney-General underscored Lagos’ readiness for state police implementation, attributing it to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s initiatives. He emphasized the advantages of indigenous policing, including enhanced community engagement, swift response, and targeted crime prevention.

While acknowledging concerns about potential political interference, Pedro called for robust legislation to safeguard against such risks. He emphasized that, despite possible drawbacks, the benefits of state police far outweigh the disadvantages.

In conclusion, Pedro reiterated the necessity for the federal government to enact legislation that ensures accountability and prevents abuse in the operation of state police forces.