House of Reps Passes State Police Bill

The House of Representatives has passed a constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria.

The proposal, approved during plenary on Thursday, received overwhelming support from lawmakers, with about 288 members voting in favour and four voting against. 

The bill is aimed at decentralising policing and strengthening efforts to address insecurity nationwide.

If enacted, the amendment will create both Federal and State Police formations. State police forces will only become operational after being established through state laws and certified to meet national standards.

The bill also outlines the powers and responsibilities of state police, including provisions allowing governors to issue lawful directives to State Commissioners of Police on matters relating to public safety and order.

However, federal intervention in state policing would be limited to exceptional circumstances, including a breakdown of law and order, requests from state governors, or situations where a state police force is unable to function effectively.

The proposal will now proceed to the Senate and must secure approval from at least two-thirds of State Houses of Assembly before it can be presented to the President for assent.