In a lively session at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference, presidential candidates from various opposition parties engaged in a heated debate over critical issues affecting Nigeria's security and policing strategies. The discussion featured prominent figures including Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress (AAC) and Rotimi Amaechi, the vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The panel highlighted contrasting views on the future of policing in Nigeria, particularly the proposed reforms for state police. While most candidates expressed support for state policing, Adewale Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) advocated for a three-tier policing structure that would include federal, state, and local government levels. This recommendation was part of a broader discussion on how to effectively address the nation’s security challenges.

Amaechi, who previously served as the governor of Rivers State, emphasized the dire state of the Nigerian economy and the necessity for job creation to stimulate economic activity. He recounted his achievements as governor, including the construction of over 500 primary schools and numerous health centers, asserting that these efforts significantly reduced crime in his state. He expressed a preference for community policing over state police, arguing that it would better address local security issues.

Sowore and Adebayo took a more radical stance, suggesting that a change in national leadership was essential to tackle the pervasive insecurity in Nigeria. They pointedly referred to what they termed "terrorists in the Presidential villa," calling for a complete overhaul of the current political system to facilitate meaningful progress.

The discussion also touched on the contentious issue of fuel subsidy removal. Sowore criticized the ongoing subsidy program, arguing that it primarily benefits the elite and state governors rather than the average Nigerian. He stated, "The only people who are doing well since the removal of fuel subsidy are the governors of states," highlighting the need for a more equitable approach to economic policy.

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), shifted the focus towards poverty reduction as a means to combat insecurity. He underscored the importance of transforming Nigeria from a consumption-based economy to one that prioritizes production, particularly in agriculture.

The panel was marked by a shared acknowledgment of the pressing need for police reforms. Sowore promised that if elected, he would ensure that those who have misappropriated national resources would face justice. Donald Duke, a former governor of Cross River State, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that effective leadership is crucial to addressing Nigeria's myriad challenges.

In a keynote address, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, defended the administration's push for state police reforms. He argued that centralized policing without adequate safeguards could lead to chaos, advocating for a dual policing system to address existing imbalances. Gbajabiamila highlighted the disparity in police-to-population ratios, noting that Nigeria has one policeman for every 650 people, compared to the international standard of one per 450.

He stressed the importance of training and professionalism in law enforcement, asserting that policing should be a respected career choice for Nigerians. Gbajabiamila also raised concerns about the potential misuse of police powers, advocating for protections for officers who refuse unlawful commands and emphasizing the need for strengthened institutions to uphold these safeguards.

The vibrant exchanges at the NBA conference underscored the urgency of addressing Nigeria's security and governance issues as the country approaches the 2027 elections.