By, Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria KACRAN has expressed strong opposition to the proposed establishment of State Police in Northern Nigeria, citing significant financial implications and potential security risks.
In a statement signed by Honarabul Khalid Muhammad Bello the National President of the association said that , the KACRAN highlighted the substantial financial burden of establishing and maintaining a State Police force, which could divert critical resources from essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure and others.
According to him the association estimated that setting up a State Police force in a state with 15 local governments could require atleast ₦10 billion in initial setup costs, with monthly operational costs of around ₦3 billion.
KACRAN also raised concerns about job security for newly recruited officers, the potential weakening of the Nigeria Police Force, and the risks of political abuse respectively.
“Therefore we urge the Northern Governors to reconsider this proposal and instead invest in initiatives that promote sustainable development and long-term prosperity for our region,” said Khalid Bello.
According to him the association recommended redirecting resources towards agricultural investment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development as I said earlier.
The proposal for State Police in Northern Nigeria has sparked intense debate, with proponents arguing it would enhance security and opponents citing concerns about financial sustainability and potential risks respectively.
According to him the Northern Governors have yet to respond to KACRAN’s concerns regarding the consequences of such a decision.
Additionally, the Kacran Proposes the establishment of security foundation fund where at least N50m million would be donated monthly to support law enforcement personnel.
Therefore KACRAN called on the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) Northern Consultative Forum, Emir’s and other northern elders to oppose the establishment of state police.