The House of Representatives is set to vote on the State Police Bill today, a measure aimed at strengthening security across Nigeria. The legislation, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and 14 other lawmakers, seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to establish state police and transfer policing powers from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List.
Kalu explained that the bill is a response to growing incidents of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes that have challenged national security in recent years.
Single-Term Structure for Efficient Governance
Speaking on behalf of 37 Caucus Leaders, Kalu argued that the constitutional amendment would allow for a decentralized policing structure capable of faster responses to criminal incidents. He said the current provisions, particularly Section 214, are insufficient for the level of security oversight required.
“Leaving the law as it is will not give us the expected results Nigerians desire,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of unbundling security-related challenges through legislation targeting state policing.
Broad Support from Executive and Governors
According to Kalu, consultations have been carried out extensively with stakeholders, including the Inspector-General of Police, the executive branch, and all 36 state governors, most of whom have expressed support for the establishment of state police.
He stressed that once the National Assembly passes the bill, it is expected to receive backing from state legislatures, paving the way for prompt ratification and submission to the President for assent.
House of Reps Calls Members Back
Acknowledging concerns about attempts to stall the bill, Kalu reassured Nigerians that the House is united in its commitment. He called on lawmakers currently engaged in oversight duties across the country to return immediately to Abuja to participate in Thursday’s plenary session.
“We want all members to be in the chamber tomorrow to demonstrate that security remains a top priority,” he said, adding that Parliament will move forward regardless of external pressures.
Legislative Background
The state police bill was first prioritized as one of 44 constitutional amendments slated for passage in December of last year, though it did not progress at that time. Kalu explained that the legislation is vital to enhancing the capacity of state security agencies and ensuring faster, localized responses to crimes that threaten lives and property.
Expected Impact
If passed, the amendment would create a legal framework for the establishment of state police forces across Nigeria, aiming to reduce the reliance on centralized policing and improve accountability, responsiveness, and community engagement in law enforcement.
“The essence of parliament is to evolve laws in response to changing realities and public needs,” Kalu said. “This amendment is designed to strengthen the nation’s security architecture and safeguard citizens effectively.”
