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Opinion

Is Nigeria Ripe For State Police?

Published

14 years ago

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For sometime now, many Nigerians have been clamouring for state police.  This they say will foster  peace and security in the country.

Our correspondent, Calista Ezeaku went round the town to ask the people if Nigeria is actually ripe for state police, especially in view of the security challenges currently facing the nation.

Ken Nwiueh captured their facial expressions.

 

Alhaji Umaru Ewunee, a Graphic Artist

The truth of the matter is that in Nigeria, we have police already.  Are those policemen not working? If they have one defect or the other, are they not the ones to train the ones we will recruit as State Police?

The people that would be in the State Police, are they not Nigerians? Are they not seeing what is happening in the country? So the issue is that as long as they are police, I believe, they will also be corrupt.

However, I also believe that state policemen will be able to secure the states more,  having come from those particular states.  If I am from a particular state, I will do a better job in securing my people, than somebody from another state.

It is just like the vigilante groups, when they are well trained, they guard their territories better than somebody from another locality. So if we recruit people from our localities for that very purpose, I believe it’s going to yield better results.

However, whether we have Federal Police or State Police, if the policemen are not paid well, there will still be the problem of inefficiency and corruption.  The major problem we have in Nigeria today is corruption.

If the issue of corruption is being tackled, I believe they will work with their minds.  If  they are paid well, they will work with their minds, because what makes them to be corrupt  is because they are not paid well.

You cannot see your fellow citizens working in places like oil companies, driving cars and building  houses and you, working as a police man probably with the same qualification can hardly make ends meet, and will not be tempted to be corrupt.

So if the policemen are paid well and being taking care of adequately, I believe, they will render better services.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr Job Akien Alli, a Lecturer

The answer could be yes or no. Yes, because State Police are going to be paid by the states. Each state must have a certain number of policemen they would desire with regard to the security problems in their region.  That would determine the number of police they would employ to handle any crisis.  That will also help them to train them in any level without seeking external aid.  So state police will help states to train their policemen in the areas of their own peculiar security challenges.

But if it is a federal police system, with the mixture of different qualities of policemen,  you can bring policemen not trained on a particular crisis case to a place and they will not be able to handle the situation and that could result to more crisis or yield negative results. They could even turn the situation to their own advantage, as it is happening now.

But on the other hand, I will say no, Nigeria is not ripe for State Police.  Because of the political scenario, Nigeria’s democracy is too young for state police.

The way and manner we carry out security issues in this country is still alarming and disappointing.

The reasons are these, every big man-a governor, a minister, law makers, chairmen of local government areas, even councillors, want to control the police with the people’s money.

You know in Nigeria we are so money-conscious.  That is why State Police will not be a good thing. If every one is not corrupt, if everyone is honest and has integrity, we can run State Police without any bias.

But because of the desire for money, making money as a god, state police cannot be okay in this country. Because when the state police comes to reign, the rich will suppress the poor in every matter that would involve the police. They will jail them because they have money to jail them.

Even now that State Police is not operating, you can see some people putting innocent people in prison, which cases had never appeared in a court of law at all, talkless of state police. When the main “Oga” is the governor and he has a hierarchy of boys, and the boys will be threatening you, “the governor is my man, we are in the same party, I will lock you up and nothing will happen”.

It happens. So Nigeria is not ripe for State Police with the kind of administration we are running.

Besides, who would make up the State Police if not the boys of those in authority?  The man who is on seat will want to employ his community’s men more in the police.  So if his community and another community have a problem, he will send the police of his own community to suppress the other community that has no police.

Because surely, the quota system will not be used in recruiting the policemen. They will make noise about the quota system, but the implementation of the quota system will not be there.  So bias, tribalism, religion and other things will set in.

So until corruption is wiped out from the country, until everyone is becoming conscious of his integrity, his personality, not to soil his name, we need not think of State Police.

When we were small, we used to hear that a good name is better than silver and gold.  Until that mentality is built in Nigerians, of patriotism and integrity of persons, there shall be no state police.

 

Bright Bie Kara, a Student

The issue of state police is a welcome development. I love it, the idea is good. I think State Police will help to tackle most of the problems in our communities better.  It will create employment for our youths too, so that they will stop all the cultism and criminal activities they are involved in.

 

Deacon Prince Enyi Princewill, a Politician

State Police is not necessary.  What I will rather suggest is that we should have proper community vigilante groups with legal backing.  State police will begin to create some kind of alteration in the Federal system.

We have a federal system and the Nigerian police is under the exclusive list.  So, by the time you start talking of State Police, it will mean moving the police from the exclusive list to either concurrent or residual list.

So, instead let there be legally backed vigilante groups or community policing. If we adopt State Police, it means we are no longer operating a federal system of government. A man from Ondo should be able to serve in Rivers State. A Rivers man should be able to serve in Sokoto. That retains, maintains and sustains our federal system.

 

Miss Lilian Pueba, a  Student

I think Nigeria is ripe for State Police because that will ensure adequate, effective security of our communities and the state.  The current system where policemen are posted to states other than their states of origin results in poor commitment to the job. If you know me, you will want to treat me better.

 

Jacinta Chinyere Nnaji,  a Lawyer

Actually, there are pros and cons to having a State Police.  The police system as it is now is tilting more to the federal side.  There is no attachment to the people as it is because they see themselves as answerable to only the state or local governments.

So they kind of do what they like because it is a federal system and they don’t have any answer  to anybody here.

But if we have a State Police, there will be more checks and balances.  The state government is there, the chairman of a local government is there.  People watch them and they can easily report them to somebody. They will check them really.

On the other hand, if we have state police, those in authority may have adverse control of the police.  They can even use the police against their opponents, especially during elections.  Some other person who is a money bag can also pay the police and use them for negative reasons.  People can use the police to intimidate their enemies or opponent, or cause problems in the society.

But if you ask me, I think I will prefer State Police because the police as it is now does not answer anybody because they feel, “who are you?  You don’t pay my salary”. So they do as they like and it is wrong.

However, as it stands now, you cannot just say states should have their police, except you amend the constitution to incorporate that in the constitution.

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Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship 

Published

2 weeks ago

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June 17, 2026

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Quote:”Love is not sustained by sharing the same bed or displaying affection in public; it is preserved by the daily investment of trust, understanding, empathy, and meaningful conversations. Two people can be physically close yet emotionally distant, because lasting relationships are built not merely on intimacy, but on the consistent nurturing of hearts that remain genuinely connected.”
In an age where relationships are often measured by appearances, social media posts, and outward displays of affection, many couples are discovering a painful truth: physical closeness does not always translate into emotional connection. Two people can share the same bed, hold hands in public, and even maintain a seemingly happy home, yet remain strangers to each other’s deepest thoughts, fears, dreams, and struggles. This reality is captured in the thought-provoking message that emotional intimacy goes far beyond physical intimacy. While physical attraction may ignite a relationship, emotional connection is what sustains it. When emotional bonds weaken, relationships begin to suffer quietly, often long before any visible signs of trouble emerge.
One of the greatest misconceptions about love is the belief that affection alone is enough to keep a relationship healthy. In reality, genuine love requires much more than romantic gestures and physical presence. It requires understanding, communication, trust, empathy, and the willingness to be vulnerable with one another. Without these elements, couples may coexist rather than truly connect. Many relationships today are experiencing a silent crisis. Couples are spending more time together physically but less time engaging meaningfully. Busy schedules, work pressures, financial challenges, digital distractions, and personal ambitions have reduced many conversations to routine exchanges about bills, children, responsibilities, and daily survival. The deeper conversations that nurture emotional intimacy are gradually disappearing.
As a result, many partners feel unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. They may be present in the relationship physically, but emotionally they feel isolated. This emotional distance often creates frustration, resentment, and loneliness. Ironically, a person can feel more alone in a relationship lacking emotional connection than when they are physically alone. The danger of emotional disconnection is that it rarely announces itself loudly. Unlike dramatic conflicts or public scandals, it develops gradually. It starts when couples stop sharing their feelings openly. It grows when assumptions replace communication. It deepens when one partner feels consistently ignored, dismissed, or taken for granted. Over time, the relationship loses its warmth and vitality.This explains why some marriages and relationships that appear perfect from the outside eventually collapse unexpectedly.
 Observers are often shocked because they only saw the physical togetherness, not the emotional distance that had been growing for years beneath the surface. Relationships do not usually break down overnight; they deteriorate through the accumulation of unresolved emotional gaps. Building emotional intimacy, therefore, requires deliberate effort. It is not a one-time achievement but a daily commitment. Emotional connection is built through consistent acts of attention, kindness, and understanding. It develops when partners genuinely listen to each other without judgment. It grows when people feel safe enough to express their fears, disappointments, and aspirations without fear of criticism or rejection. Trust plays a crucial role in this process. Emotional intimacy flourishes in an environment where honesty is valued and confidentiality is respected. When trust is broken, emotional walls quickly rise.
 Rebuilding those walls requires patience, sincerity, and a willingness to heal together. Another important ingredient is empathy. Every individual wants to feel understood. Sometimes partners do not necessarily need solutions to their problems; they simply need someone who listens and acknowledges their feelings. A relationship becomes stronger when both individuals strive to understand each other’s perspectives rather than merely defend their own positions. Quality time is equally important. In a world dominated by smartphones and endless digital distractions, couples must intentionally create moments of genuine interaction. Simple activities such as sharing a meal, taking a walk, discussing personal goals, or praying together can strengthen emotional bonds significantly.
These moments communicate an important message: “You matter to me.” Respect also forms the foundation of emotional closeness. Partners who consistently speak respectfully to each other, even during disagreements, create a healthier environment for intimacy to thrive. Emotional connection cannot flourish where there is constant criticism, ridicule, or contempt. Perhaps the most important lesson is that emotional intimacy is not built by grand gestures alone. It is cultivated through small, consistent actions repeated over time. A thoughtful conversation, a sincere apology, a word of encouragement, or a genuine expression of appreciation can have a profound impact on the health of a relationship. Ultimately, the strength of any relationship lies not merely in physical proximity but in emotional accessibility. The question is not whether two people occupy the same space, but whether they truly know and understand each other.
Lasting love is sustained when hearts remain connected even amid life’s challenges. As society continues to grapple with increasing relationship difficulties, couples must remember that emotional intimacy is not optional; it is essential. Physical attraction may bring people together, but emotional connection keeps them together. It is built daily through communication, trust, empathy, respect, and intentional effort. When emotional intimacy is nurtured, relationships become more resilient, fulfilling, and meaningful. And when two hearts remain genuinely connected, love does not merely survive—it flourishes
By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi
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Opinion

Yahoo Culture And Nigeria’s Moral Fabric

Published

2 weeks ago

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June 17, 2026

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Quote “A society that celebrates wealth without questioning its source gradually breeds a generation that despises hard work, glorifies fraud, and ultimately destroys itself from within.”
Nigeria’s battle against insecurity is not limited to terrorism. Another destructive force—popularly known as “Yahoo”—has steadily eaten into the nation’s moral and social fabric. Internet fraud, which has become synonymous with “Yahoo” in local parlance, poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s image, economy, and future. The activities of internet fraudsters have tarnished the country’s reputation globally. As a result, many law-abiding Nigerians abroad or seeking legitimate opportunities overseas often face suspicion and discrimination because of the notoriety created by these criminal elements. Originally, Yahoo was merely the name of an internet search engine created in 1994 by Stanford graduates Jerry Yang and David Filo. In Nigeria, however, the term has evolved into a culture driven by greed and materialism. It has become a disturbing subculture with its own language and values.
Expressions such as “mugu fall, guy man chop” celebrate the exploitation of unsuspecting victims, portraying fraud as intelligence and deceit as success. Yahoo boys are notorious for flaunting their ill-gotten wealth. They parade expensive cars, spend lavishly, and often display arrogance towards elders and society. Their extravagant lifestyle has even been blamed for rising rents and increased cost of living in cities such as Port Harcourt. Following crackdowns in Delta and Edo states, there have been concerns over the growing presence of these elements in Rivers State. What is particularly disturbing is that many of these young men and women, some as young as teenagers, have no legitimate source of income yet live in luxury. Their actions have ruined businesses, impoverished victims, and in some cases pushed people into depression, heart attacks, and suicide.
Yet, they continue to operate openly with frightening confidence. The prevalence of Yahoo culture reflects the deep moral decay in society. Sadly, some families not only tolerate the illicit activities of their children but celebrate and pray for their success. Anyone who condemns the practice often becomes the target of abuse and ridicule. A Port Harcourt-based pastor once experienced fierce backlash from Yahoo sympathisers after speaking against the menace. Nigeria’s permissive environment has unintentionally allowed the practice to flourish. Weak institutions, compromised law enforcement, and families unwilling to question the source of sudden wealth among unemployed youths have all contributed to the problem. The virtues of patience, diligence, and integrity are steadily being replaced by greed and a desperate desire for quick riches.
Perhaps one of the greatest casualties of Yahoo culture is education. The value of years of hard work and academic excellence has been diminished. Many young people now dismiss formal education as a scam, while apprenticeship and vocational training are increasingly looked down upon. The obsession with easy money has encouraged school dropout rates and undermined the culture of honest enterprise. An even more disturbing dimension is the emergence of what many describe as “Yahoo Phase II”—a phenomenon associated with ritual practices and occult beliefs. Although stories surrounding these practices are often difficult to verify, reports of ritual killings, organ harvesting, and other horrific crimes have heightened public fears. Young people seeking wealth at all costs are said to subject themselves to bizarre and inhumane instructions from self-styled spiritualists, resulting in unimaginable tragedies.
Regardless of the myths and realities surrounding these claims, one fact remains undeniable: the pursuit of wealth without values has devastating consequences. Society is increasingly witnessing cases of substance abuse, mental instability, and mysterious deaths among youths whose lives are built on criminality and desperation. Nigeria cannot afford to remain indifferent while a generation is consumed by greed and moral bankruptcy. Combating Yahoo culture requires more than arrests and prosecutions. Families must instill values of honesty and hard work. Religious leaders, educators, and community leaders must consistently promote integrity. Government institutions must strengthen the rule of law and ensure that crime does not pay. Above all, society must stop celebrating wealth without questioning its source. No nation can attain sustainable development when fraud is admired, hard work is ridiculed, and criminality is rewarded.
 The future of Nigeria depends on raising a generation that values character above riches and integrity above material possessions. If this dangerous culture is left unchecked, the consequences will be severe. But if the nation collectively chooses the path of morality, accountability, and industry, there remains hope that the tide can be reversed and the country’s dignity restored.
By;  Confidence Adoo
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Opinion

Good Health Through Socrates’  Prescription 

Published

3 weeks ago

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June 8, 2026

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Quote: “In an age of advanced medicine and endless health information, the greatest prescription may still be the oldest one: know yourself. True health begins when we understand our bodies, emotions, habits and choices.”
The 21st century has ushered in extraordinary progress in science, technology and medicine. Diseases that once claimed millions of lives can now be prevented or treated. Information is available instantly, while fitness applications, health trackers and modern healthcare facilities have become part of everyday life. Yet, despite these advances, many people continue to struggle with physical illnesses, emotional stress, anxiety, depression and lifestyle-related diseases. This contradiction raises an important question: Why are people becoming increasingly unhealthy in an age of remarkable medical advancement? Part of the answer may lie in the timeless wisdom associated with the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates: “Know thyself.” Though spoken more than two thousand years ago, these words remain profoundly relevant today. They remind us that genuine wellbeing begins with self-understanding.
Knowing oneself goes beyond knowing one’s name, occupation or social status. It involves understanding one’s body, emotions, habits, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations. It means recognizing how daily choices affect physical, mental and emotional health. In many respects, self-knowledge forms the foundation of healthy living. One of the greatest health challenges today is the tendency to ignore warning signs until serious problems emerge. Many people neglect symptoms such as persistent fatigue, poor sleep, chronic stress, unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity. Because they are disconnected from their bodies, they fail to recognize that their health is gradually deteriorating. A person who truly knows himself pays attention to these signals. Such an individual understands which foods nourish the body and which habits undermine health. They recognize when rest is necessary,
when stress levels become dangerous and when professional medical attention should be sought. Self-awareness encourages preventive action long before illness develops. The same principle applies to mental and emotional health. Modern life is filled with pressures. Social media often encourages unhealthy comparisons, while economic challenges, family responsibilities and workplace demands create enormous psychological burdens. Many people suffer silently because they have not learned to understand or manage their emotions. Knowing oneself means recognizing emotional triggers, vulnerabilities and sources of stress. It involves identifying feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger or frustration before they become overwhelming. Self-aware individuals are more likely to seek support, adopt healthy coping mechanisms and maintain emotional balance.
Self-knowledge also promotes discipline. Many of today’s health problems are linked to lifestyle choices. Excessive consumption of processed foods, alcohol abuse, smoking, substance misuse, physical inactivity and poor sleeping habits contribute significantly to disease burdens around the world. Most people are aware of these risks. The challenge is often not a lack of information but a lack of self-understanding. Individuals who understand their motivations, weaknesses and tendencies are better equipped to resist harmful habits and develop healthier routines. In this way, self-knowledge becomes a powerful tool for self-control. Socrates also taught that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” While philosophical in origin, this statement has practical implications for health. Examining one’s life encourages honest reflection. Are we eating wisely? Are we exercising enough?
Are we sleeping adequately? Are we managing stress effectively? Are we maintaining healthy relationships? These are not merely philosophical questions. They are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Honest answers can reveal habits that require improvement and inspire positive change. Ironically, while technology has made health information more accessible, it has also made self-understanding more difficult. Many people spend hours following social media trends and public personalities while paying little attention to their own health. They know more about celebrities than they know about their blood pressure, sleep quality or emotional wellbeing. A healthier society will require more than modern hospitals and advanced medications. It will require citizens who actively seek to understand themselves. Preventive healthcare begins with personal awareness.
Parents, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals and policymakers all have important roles to play in promoting self-awareness. Young people should be taught not only academic subjects but also emotional intelligence, self-reflection, healthy lifestyle habits and personal responsibility. Ultimately, Socrates’ ancient wisdom remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. A person who understands himself is more likely to make healthy decisions, maintain emotional stability, build resilience and seek help when necessary. The journey to good health does not begin in a hospital, pharmacy or gymnasium. It begins within. As the world continues to confront complex health challenges, perhaps the most powerful prescription requires no expensive technology or medication. It is the enduring wisdom that has stood the test of time: know yourself. In understanding ourselves, we discover one of the surest paths to healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.
By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi
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