By Olaitan Ibrahim
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has criticized the proposal to establish state police, describing it as both financially burdensome and fraught with risks.
KACRAN’s National President, Alhaji Khalil Bello, expressed these concerns in a statement issued on Friday in Damaturu.
He noted the financial implications of setting up state police, noting that costs could range between N10 billion to N30 billion, depending on a state’s population. Also, he estimated monthly salaries and operational expenses at approximately N3 billion.
“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,” Bello said.
The KACRAN president also voiced fears about potential misuse of state police by political actors.
“There is a risk that these forces could be used to serve the interests of local political leaders rather than the broader public, leading to the victimization of opposition parties and creating an environment of lawlessness and anarchy,” he stated.
Bello warned that such misuse could undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in law enforcement. Instead of state police, he advocated for redirecting resources towards sustainable development initiatives, including agricultural investments, youth employment programs, and industrial and infrastructure growth.
As an alternative to state police, Bello proposed the establishment of a security foundation fund supported by monthly contributions to enhance existing law enforcement capacities.
He further urged influential northern groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Consultative Forum, and traditional rulers, to reject the state police proposal.
“We believe that focusing on social services and economic development will yield greater benefits for the region than the creation of state police, which may ultimately exacerbate existing challenges. By investing in sustainable initiatives, Northern states can create a more secure, prosperous, and harmonious society for all citizens,” he added.