Security: Ziphion Chrysanthus faults rejection of state police, calls for urgent reform

A security expert and advocate for good governance, Ziphion John Chrysanthus, has criticized the stance of Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, a member of the House of Representatives representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State, over his rejection of state policing in Nigeria.

In a statement on Monday, Chrysanthus described Gagdi’s comments as “misplaced and insensitive” to the realities of daily insecurity faced by Nigerians, particularly in Plateau State, which has witnessed waves of violent attacks by non-state actors.

“Security is not a privilege reserved for the elite, nor is it an ornament of political status to be paraded during election seasons. Security is a right—a non-negotiable, fundamental right of every Nigerian citizen,” he declared.

Chrysanthus faulted what he called a contradiction in Gagdi’s position, noting that while the lawmaker expressed fears that governors could misuse state police by arming them with weapons, he himself moves around with government-funded security escorts carrying such arms.

“If the federal government can entrust Hon. Gagdi with heavily armed security personnel, what moral or practical basis is there to deny governors the authority to equip their security outfits to protect vulnerable communities?” he asked.

He stressed that residents of Garga, Mangu, Bokkos, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Wase, Qua’an Pan, and other parts of Plateau State are not asking for luxuries but for the right to live in peace.

Chrysanthus further argued that Nigeria’s centralized security structure has failed to address localized challenges, insisting that state police is not a threat but a necessity.

“Security cannot be micromanaged from Abuja. It must be localized, responsive, and community-driven. State police would ensure quicker response times, better intelligence, and officers who understand the terrain and culture of the communities they serve,” he said.

He urged the National Assembly, the Presidency, and other stakeholders to fast-track the establishment of state police structures, assuring that accountability concerns could be addressed through proper checks and balances.

Chrysanthus, who emphasized that leadership must be rooted in empathy and responsibility, appealed to Gagdi and other political leaders to realign their positions with the interests of the people.

“Our allegiance as leaders must always be to the people, not to parties or positions. The dignity and lives of our people are sacred. History will not judge us by the titles we held, but by the lives we saved and the courage we showed in times of trial,” he stated.