Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has warned that the proposed state police system could be exploited as a political tool ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sowore raised the concern on Tuesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, arguing that introducing state-controlled policing close to an election period could create risks for Nigeria’s democratic process.

Also read: Sowore reacts to PFIPC controversy, makes fresh allegations against Gbajabiamila

The activist and publisher said the timing of the reform was problematic, stressing that major constitutional changes should not be rushed when the country is approaching a major electoral cycle.

“I would say that we wait until the elections are over. The election is a major distraction at this time. The election is months away, and everybody is going to be more interested in how to campaign, how to choose their candidates, and how to ensure the elections are free and fair,” Sowore said.

The debate has gained attention as the Federal Government continues discussions on restructuring Nigeria’s policing system, with supporters arguing that state police could improve security responses at the local level.

Sowore, however, said the reform requires broader public consultation before implementation, warning that rushing the process could create challenges during the election period.

“To now insert state policing, a very major constitutional change of fundamental federal structural change that could lead to structural damage or that could lead to interference with the election, is not the best time,” he said.

The AAC candidate also expressed concerns over granting governors control of security personnel, questioning whether state leaders could exercise such powers without political influence.

“Nigerian state governors are not trustworthy to be handed security personnel of this scale,” Sowore stated.

The Federal Government has continued to pursue discussions on a new policing framework, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu supporting efforts to advance reforms.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, had previously indicated that a draft national policing bill was being prepared for consideration.

Advocates of state police argue that local security control would allow faster responses to crimes and improve intelligence gathering, particularly in areas facing persistent insecurity.

Also read: Sowore reacts to PFIPC controversy, makes fresh allegations against Gbajabiamila

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, debates over electoral safeguards, security reforms and the independence of security institutions are expected to remain major issues in national discourse.