The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria has expressed strong opposition to the proposed creation of state police forces in Northern Nigeria, urging governors in the region to reconsider the move.
In a statement released by its National President, Khalil Bello, the association emphasised that the introduction of state police would exacerbate existing security challenges rather than provide solutions.
KACRAN voiced concerns about the potential negative implications of state police on the financial stability, administrative efficiency, and social harmony in the region. Bello explained that the financial burden of establishing state police would be significant, diverting much-needed resources away from vital public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, according to ThisDay.
The association highlighted that setting up a state police force could cost billions of Naira, with a state comprising 15 local governments requiring approximately 10 billion Naira for initial setup, including recruitment, training, and infrastructure. Larger states like Kano could face even higher costs, estimated at 30 billion Naira. Additionally, maintaining such a force would incur monthly expenses of about 3 billion Naira for salaries and operational costs, further stretching already limited state budgets.
KACRAN also raised concerns about the job security of newly recruited police officers, noting that if budget constraints or administrative changes lead to job losses, these officers might resort to criminal activities, which could potentially increase crime rates in their communities. The association stressed the importance of ensuring stable employment for the officers to help maintain peace and security.
The group reiterated its opposition to the establishment of state police in Northern Nigeria, urging governors to consider the broader social and financial implications of such a move.
“Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) wishes to express its deep concerns and firm opposition to the proposed establishment of State Police in Northern Nigeria.
“This proposal has significant implications that could impact financial stability, administrative efficiency, and social harmony in the region.
“For example, a state with 15 local governments could require approximately 10 billion Naira for initial setup costs, including recruitment, training, equipment, and infrastructure development.
“In larger states like Kano, these expenses could rise to about 30 billion Naira. Additionally, maintaining such a force would demand around 3 billion Naira monthly for salaries and operational costs.
“These expenditures could divert critical resources from essential public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which are vital for the development and well-being of the region.”
““If budget constraints or administrative changes lead to job losses, these trained individuals might resort to criminal activities, potentially increasing crime rates within communities. Ensuring stable employment for these officers is crucial to maintaining peace and security,” he added.
