Donald Duke calls for decentralization of Nigerian policing

Donald Duke, former Cross River State governor and presidential candidate for the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has advocated for the decentralization of Nigeria’s security architecture. Duke argues that the current centralized system has failed to effectively combat terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.

He proposes the establishment of police formations at both the state and local government levels. Duke emphasizes that intelligence gathering should constitute the primary responsibility of these local formations, suggesting that communities are better positioned to identify emerging threats. He noted that Nigeria’s security structure has not undergone substantial redesign since the end of the Civil War in 1970.

To prevent the potential for political intimidation by governors, Duke recommends implementing stringent guidelines and strengthening the judiciary to ensure accountability. He dismissed concerns regarding the abuse of power, noting that the federal police are also susceptible to misuse by national leaders.