Kano State’s Armed Security Outfit: Challenges, Legal Implications, and Federal-State Tensions.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu
February 5, 2025
The recent passage of a bill by the Kano State House of Assembly to establish a state-owned security outfit with arms-bearing capabilities has sparked intense debate. While the bill aims to enhance security in Kano, it raises significant concerns about potential conflicts with federal security agencies, legal ambiguities, and the risk of political influence.
The law establishes a security outfit with powers to bear arms and make arrests,
Prevent crimes and apprehend offenders,
and Operate across the entire Kano State,
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One notable clause in the law is the prohibition of political party members from heading the outfit. The lawmakers argue that this ensures neutrality, but critics question how such neutrality will be maintained in practice.
Conflict with Federal Security Agencies,
Nigeria’s Constitution places policing under the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal government. The creation of an armed state security outfit could lead to clashes between the new force and agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Army. The question arises: will federal agencies recognize the authority of this new outfit?
Therefore, Security Bodies in Kano in which Kano already has several security-related organizations, including: Hisbah Corps (Sharia enforcement),
Kano Road and Traffic Agency (KAROTA), and Kwankwasiyya Guards (Political security group)
The introduction of another armed outfit could create confusion over jurisdiction and command structures, leaving citizens unsure of which authority to obey.
Despite the non-partisan leadership clause, there are fears that the security outfit could be used as a tool for political intimidation or suppression of opposition groups. Given Nigeria’s history of politically influenced security agencies, skepticism remains high.
The Nigerian Constitution does not explicitly permit states to establish armed security outfits. Similar attempts in other states, such as the Amotekun Corps in the Southwest, have faced legal battles over their authority to bear arms. If challenged in court, the Kano security outfit law might be ruled unconstitutional.
Establishing and maintaining an armed security force requires significant funding for training, salaries, weapons, and logistics. Without adequate oversight, there is a risk of poor training, unprofessional conduct, and human rights abuses.
Instead of creating a parallel security structure, the Kano State Government should consider.
Strengthening community policing initiatives in collaboration with the Nigeria Police.
Expanding the role of Hisbah and KAROTA with better training and clear operational boundaries,Partnering with federal security agencies to address Kano’s security challenges collectively.
If not properly handled, this new security outfit could lead to tensions, confusion, and even violence. The Kano State Government must tread carefully, ensuring that security remains a tool for public safety, not political control.
