Abuja: The Pioneer Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Chief Simon Okeke, has called for the establishment of state police forces as a measure to address the rising insecurity in the country. He made this appeal during the public presentation of a book titled ‘My Stewardship, Compendium of PSC Media Engagements, 2013-2025’ in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the book, authored by Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, who is the Head of Press and Public Relations at the PSC, marks Ani’s official retirement from public service at the age of 60. During the event, Okeke highlighted the alarming rate of insecurity, emphasizing the need for decisive actions to combat the issue. He argued that transferring the responsibility of security to state governments could provide more effective solutions.
Okeke pointed out that the constitutional provision naming governors as the chief security officers of their states remains ineffective without granting them control over local policing. He addressed concerns about potential abuses of state police by governors, suggesting that legislative measures could provide necessary checks and balances to mitigate such risks.
Furthermore, Okeke extended congratulations to Ani and his family for their dedicated service to the nation. Ani, reflecting on his tenure, noted his 12-year experience as the head of press and public relations at the PSC, during which he worked under several chairmen. He expressed gratitude for the media’s support in maintaining the commission’s presence in public discourse.
Ani explained that his book captures his media engagements from 2022 to 2025, focusing on policy developments and the role of media in promoting accountability within the policing framework. He emphasized that the book serves as a historical record of the commission’s activities, showcasing contributions from various administrations during his tenure.