- the upper chamber is prepared to accelerate constitutional amendments needed to pave the way for state policing
- He explained that the Senate is determined to work with the executive arm of government to address the country’s security challenges
- The renewed push follows widespread concerns over insecurity, especially after the recent abduction of pupils
The Senate has begun steps toward the establishment of state police, promising to provide the legislative backing required to strengthen security operations and tackle growing cases of kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes across Nigeria.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, disclosed this during an interview on Wednesday, stressing that lawmakers are committed to supporting efforts aimed at improving national security.
According to him, the upper chamber is prepared to accelerate constitutional amendments needed to pave the way for state policing.
He explained that the Senate is determined to work with the executive arm of government to address the country’s security challenges and ensure citizens are better protected.
Adaramodu noted that lawmakers would give priority attention to legislation relating to state police, describing it as a critical measure for enhancing public safety and confronting criminal elements operating in different parts of the country.
The renewed push follows widespread concerns over insecurity, especially after the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
The attack, which occurred on May 15 in communities within Oriire Local Government Area, saw gunmen invade schools and take away several victims, sparking outrage across the country.
The incident reignited debates on the need to reform Nigeria’s policing system and improve security at the grassroots level.
When plenary resumed after the Sallah break, the Senate condemned the attack and observed a minute of silence in honour of two teachers who lost their lives in connection with the abduction.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the incident as a painful reminder of the security threats confronting the nation, stressing that attacks on schools endanger the future of the country and demand urgent action.
Advocates of state police have consistently argued that decentralising law enforcement would improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community-based security efforts and enable quicker responses to criminal activities.
Supporters also believe state-controlled police formations would complement federal security agencies and help curb crimes that have continued to affect several regions of the country.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier urged the National Assembly to speed up the constitutional process required for the creation of state police. He also assured governors and other stakeholders that the initiative remains a key part of efforts to improve security nationwide.
