Professor Chidi Odinkalu, former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, has raised concerns about the proposed establishment of state police, warning that inadequate funding could undermine the initiative.
Speaking in an interview published on the official YouTube channel of Mic On Podcast on Saturday, July 11, 2026, Odinkalu said many state governments already struggle to meet basic financial obligations, including the payment of salaries and pensions, casting doubt on their ability to sustain independent police forces.
He warned that poorly paid officers equipped with firearms and uniforms could be vulnerable to misconduct if adequate welfare and oversight mechanisms are not in place.
“State police will make more money with their guns and uniforms than state governments can provide,” Odinkalu said, arguing that poor remuneration could encourage abuse of authority.
The legal scholar stressed that his remarks should not be interpreted as opposition to state police. Rather, he said the proposal requires broader national debate, careful planning, proper funding, and strong accountability systems before implementation.
Odinkalu also urged Nigerians to participate actively in discussions on security reforms, saying public engagement is essential to building professional and trusted policing institutions.
