Nigeria's House of Reps Votes on State Police Bill Amid Security Concerns

Nigeria's House of Representatives is set to vote on a pivotal bill that could establish state police forces across the country. This proposed constitutional amendment, titled "A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 to provide for the establishment of state police, and for related matters (Sixth Alteration) 2026," seeks to formally introduce decentralized policing structures.

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the chamber resolved to give priority to the state police proposal over other constitutional amendment bills.

The move comes amid growing concerns that the current centralized policing system is struggling to effectively curb widespread insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping. Proponents of the bill argue that empowering states with their own police forces would lead to more responsive and effective security measures tailored to local threats. The bill is jointly sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and 14 other members of the House.

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the proposed amendment had become imperative given the rising cases of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes nationwide, stressing that the legislature must deploy constitutional and legislative instruments to address gaps in the country’s security framework.

However, the proposal has ignited significant public debate. Critics have voiced concerns about the potential for state governors to abuse the powers granted to local police forces. Despite these reservations, the House leadership has prioritized the state police proposal, recognizing the urgent need to address the nation's security challenges through legislative means. President Bola Tinubu has previously expressed support for the idea, viewing it as a potential enhancement to national security.

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describing it as a step that could enhance national security.