The Nigerian Senate has passed the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police, bringing the country a step closer to adopting a decentralised policing system aimed at tackling growing insecurity.
The bill received the support of 87 senators after a clause-by-clause consideration during plenary, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio announcing its passage.
“The bill seeks to balance local policing autonomy with national cohesion, accountability with operational effectiveness and federal oversight with state responsibility,” Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said.
The proposed legislation creates a dual policing structure comprising the Federal Police Service and State Police Services, with governors empowered to appoint state Commissioners of Police, subject to confirmation by their respective State Houses of Assembly.
To address concerns about possible abuse, the Senate included constitutional safeguards preventing governors from using state police against political opponents, journalists or critics outside the provisions of the law.
The bill also limits federal intervention in state police operations to exceptional cases such as threats to national security, breakdown of public order or serious violations of fundamental rights.
Several lawmakers described the legislation as a major step toward strengthening security, while acknowledging the need for proper funding and oversight to ensure its success.
Before the proposal can become law, it must be approved by at least 24 of the 36 State Houses of Assembly before being transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
Source: Nigerian Senate
