Senate Set to Consider State Police Bill as Constitutional Amendment

Senate Set to Consider State Police Bill as Constitutional Amendment Moves Forward
Lawmakers cite growing support for security sector reforms
Two-thirds of state assemblies must ratify amendment before assent

The Senate is expected to take a significant step toward the establishment of state police this week as lawmakers prepare to consider amendments to the 1999 Constitution that would empower states to create and operate their own police forces.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed that the proposed constitutional amendment is scheduled for consideration during the legislative week beginning on Tuesday.

According to Bamidele, the National Assembly has decided to treat the state police proposal separately from other constitutional amendment bills because of the urgency and national importance attached to the issue.

He noted that there is growing consensus among political leaders, stakeholders and security experts that state policing has become necessary to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

The Senate Leader revealed that discussions on the proposed legislation had reached an advanced stage following extensive consultations involving the leadership of the National Assembly, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and other relevant stakeholders.

Bamidele expressed optimism that the bill would secure Senate approval this week, bringing the country closer to implementing one of the most debated security reforms in recent years.

He added that lawmakers were determined to ensure the proposal receives timely consideration due to increasing calls for reforms to strengthen the nation’s security architecture.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu and state governors have already expressed support for the initiative, reflecting broad political backing for the amendment.

Bamidele explained that once the National Assembly passes the bill, it will be transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for ratification, as required by the Constitution.

For the amendment to become law, at least two-thirds of the state legislatures must approve it before it is returned to President Tinubu for assent.

Senate Set to Consider State Police Bill

If the constitutional requirements are met and presidential assent is granted, state police will become a constitutional reality, paving the way for states to establish their own policing structures as part of efforts to improve security across the country.