The Senate in Abuja moved the Constitution Amendment Bill regarding state police to the next legislative stage on Wednesday. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele initiated the process by requesting a suspension of standard rules to quickly process the executive proposal, which seeks to legally establish state-level police forces.
Bamidele explained that the bill aims to create state police while maintaining a centralized federal force. He noted that the legislation includes national standards and oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse. The proposal also features independent commissions and federal intervention protocols for special situations, alongside protections for citizen rights. He highlighted that this shift would bolster intelligence and local security responses.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe acknowledged that the nation’s security crisis demands fresh strategies, though he cautioned that strict safeguards are necessary to avoid political manipulation. He emphasized the need for constitutional funding and oversight to ensure professionalism. Similarly, Senator Aminu Tambuwal supported the bill as a measure to strengthen federalism, while also warning that future abuse by local authorities must be mitigated.
Senator Mohammed Monguno expressed his support, noting that existing community security arrangements prove that a formal state policing framework is necessary. After a strong consensus, the bill was passed for a second reading and forwarded to the committee of the whole.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio noted the significance of the session, which was attended by various state governors, attorneys-general, and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. Akpabio remarked that the high-level attendance highlights the urgency of addressing security challenges through legislative reform.
