South-East assemblies back state police, warn against political abuse

South-East Nigerian state assemblies support the bill to establish state police services: Anambra, Enugu, Imo and Abia have passed it, while Ebonyi is close to doing so. The proposed framework would allow states to form their own forces subject to the Constitution and national standards, which lawmakers say could bring security closer to communities and speed up responses. Enugu lawmakers also suggested integrating local vigilantes after appropriate training. However, legislator Harrison Ogara warned that state police could be used to intimidate political opponents unless strong oversight and accountability safeguards are established.