The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, Lawal Pedro (SAN), has expressed readiness for the establishment of state police, asserting that the state is fully prepared and only awaits the signal to commence the creation process.
Mr Pedro made this declaration during an interview with journalists on the sidelines of the 10th Ramadan lecture organized by the Anwar-ul Islam Old Students Association (ACAOSA) in Lagos on Saturday.
He mentioned his longstanding advocacy for state police dating back to 2001, emphasizing its potential to enhance state security.
“As far back as 2001, I have always maintained that the security of this country will be addressed by having state police or community police.
“We are talking about a police system that is indigenous to the people themselves.
“Lagos is over ready for the state police. I can assure you that because we have our own Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps already in place and fully kitted and ready with even body cameras.
“I think we are ready to go in Lagos. If any state is ready, I can confirm to you today from what Mr Governor – Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu – has done, Lagos State is ready.
“Just give the whistle and you see our police officers on the road,” Mr Pedro said.
Stressing the importance of having local police forces in each state, the legal expert highlighted that such law enforcement agencies would possess a deeper comprehension of the local environment, crime-prone areas, and potential escape routes used by criminals.