State police push: Reps receive report, set stage for debate

Nigeria's House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards potentially creating state-controlled police forces by receiving a report on a proposed constitutional amendment. The report, presented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who chairs the Constitution Review Committee, sets the stage for a debate and clause-by-clause consideration by lawmakers.

This proposed amendment seeks to alter the 1999 Constitution to establish a legal framework for state police services. The move is a response to persistent calls from state governments, security experts, and civil society organizations to decentralize policing as a means to combat escalating insecurity across the country. Supporters argue that state police could enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing, and enable faster responses to local security threats.

However, the proposal also faces concerns regarding the potential for abuse by state governments and the necessity for robust constitutional safeguards. The House's Constitution Review Committee has been working to harmonize its position with that of the Senate on the legislation as part of the broader constitutional amendment process.

In parallel, the House also approved budget estimates for the Nigeria Police Trust Fund for 2025 and 2026. For 2025, a budget of N170.11 billion was approved, with allocations for capital expenditure at the headquarters and for the police force, alongside personnel and overhead costs. The proposed budget for 2026 stands at N233.96 billion, also detailing allocations for capital projects and operational expenses.