A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former senatorial candidate of Benue South, Daniel Onjeh, has called on President Bola Tinubu to consider granting autonomy to local government and the judiciary.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Onjeh also supported the creation of state police, emphasizing that it would help tackle insecurity in some parts of the country.
Onjeh argued that granting autonomy to local governments would enable them to understand and address the unique security challenges within their jurisdictions.
Onjeh proposed that local government autonomy should include providing the necessary financial resources and legal frameworks to establish robust local security agencies at district and municipal levels, similar to practices in the United States, and promoting proactive community policing initiatives.
He emphasized that when local government councils invest their resources from autonomy into community projects, they not only create job opportunities for unemployed youths but also reduce hardships that make them vulnerable to criminal influence.
He believes that this concerted effort towards mass employment has the potential to reduce insecurity nationwide.
Onjeh highlighted that the erosion of local government autonomy in Nigeria began with a 2002 Supreme Court ruling, coinciding with a surge in insecurity across the nation.
Regarding the judiciary, Onjeh stressed the crucial role of an impartial and efficient judiciary in upholding the rule of law and deterring criminal activities.
He advocated for judicial autonomy free from undue political influence and executive interference, asserting that it would ensure speedy and fair dispensation of justice, instilling a sense of security and accountability among citizens.
He also addressed concerns about governors potentially exploiting state police forces to suppress dissent, stating that empowered youths could assist security forces in combating criminal elements.
Acknowledging the need to address root causes such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities to tackle insecurity, Onjeh urged the Federal Government to invest in community empowerment programs, particularly in rural areas, to reduce vulnerabilities conducive to criminal activities.
Onjeh commended the 9th Senate for its efforts in advancing the causes of local government, state police, and judicial autonomy, despite being hindered by governors.
He expressed optimism with the recent endorsement of state police creation by all governors, believing it marks a turning point for Nigeria.
He emphasized the need for necessary sacrifices to steer Nigeria back on track.
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