Plateau Rep Yusuf Gagdi Explains Why He Opposes Gov. Mutfwang’s Push for State Police
The debate over the creation of state police in Nigeria has continued to stir heated reactions, with Plateau lawmaker, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, openly opposing Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s persistent call for its establishment.
Gagdi, who represents Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, maintained that Nigeria is not ripe for state police, stressing that such a security outfit would likely be used by governors against political opponents rather than for genuine protection of lives and property.
The lawmaker stated this on Sunday during his visit to some attacked and displaced communities in Kanam Local Government Area, where banditry and violent attacks have displaced many residents.
Gagdi’s Position on State Police
Speaking with journalists, Gagdi said:
“My position, even on the House floor, is that governors will misuse state police, particularly against political opponents, not to maintain peace and order. Nigeria is not ripe for proliferation of security agencies. Rather, I support strengthening existing security agencies. Fund the police, military, Department of State Services and others adequately, and ensure accountability.”
Despite acknowledging the worsening insecurity across Plateau, including in communities like Garga, Kukawa, Kyaram, Gyambau, Dungur and Shuwaka, Gagdi insisted that creating another layer of policing would not solve the crisis.
Instead, he advocated for more funding and reforms for existing security agencies to enable them to carry out their duties effectively.
Alternative Measures Proposed
Gagdi urged the Federal Government to authorize intense military and security operations in forests along the Plateau, Taraba and Bauchi borders to flush out criminal groups responsible for repeated attacks in the state.
According to him, the long-term solution lies in strengthening conventional security agencies and ensuring that allocated resources are properly utilized.
The Bigger Debate
Governor Mutfwang and several other state governors have consistently called for the establishment of state police as a solution to Nigeria’s persistent insecurity. However, Gagdi’s rejection of the idea highlights the deep divide among political leaders on how best to tackle insecurity.
While proponents argue that state police would bring security closer to the grassroots, critics like Gagdi fear it would become a political weapon in the hands of governors
