President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday, wrote the senate, seeking its approval to fund the Nigeria Police Force Reform Programme, estimated to cost N1.5tr.
Jonathan’s letter which was addressed to the Senate President and read on the floor by Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu was based on the MD Yusuf report which was submitted since 2008, and would be implemented within a period of six years if approved.
According to the president, the National Economic Council had ratified the recommendation of Technical Sub-Committee of the Interim Implementation Committee for Police Reform Programme, adding that the sub-committee had recommended the deduction of one percent from the monthly statutory allocation to Federal, states and local government areas in the state, for the next six years, to fund the programme.
“Notwithstanding this commitment, the realistic flow of funds has met with setbacks to the effect that the reform implementation has been tardy, even as security challenges keep increasing.”
“The National Economic Council agreed to and recommended a deduction of one percent from the monthly alloactions of the Federal, State and Local Governments.
“This will be sourced as a first line charge subject to legislative endorsement at both federal and state levels for interested participating states.
“In view of the foregoing and the current escalating security challenges necessitating more than ever before, the strenghtening of Police force, I have given consideration to the recommendation of the National Economic Council.
“Consequent upon this, I hereby seek the consent of the National Assembly for the deduction of one percent from the statutory allocation of the Federal Government of Nigeria as contribution for the ICPRP,” he said.
