Tinubu Pushes State Police Bill To N’Assembly

Tinubu Pushes State Police Bill To N’Assembly

The Senate is expected to vote today on a constitutional amendment seeking to establish state police after President Bola Tinubu formally sent the bill to the National Assembly.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged lawmakers to attend the sitting, describing it as a major moment for Nigeria’s security system.

The proposal has also gained support from state governors, who want stronger authority over security operations within their states.

Discussions have focused on funding, oversight, recruitment and the relationship between federal and state police formations.

Retired security chiefs remain divided on how much control governors should have.

While some believe state police will improve intelligence gathering and tackle local crimes faster, others warned that strong safeguards are needed to prevent political misuse.

If approved by the National Assembly and endorsed by enough state assemblies, the amendment would create Nigeria’s first decentralised policing structure since independence.

Supporters say it could improve security, while critics insist strict checks must remain in place.