Reps Begin Clause-by-Clause Review of Tinubu's State Police Bill

The House of Representatives has commenced a clause-by-clause review of President Bola Tinubu's Executive Bill seeking to establish state police, marking a significant step in the constitutional amendment process. Lawmakers on the House Committee on Constitution Review began scrutinising the bill's provisions, with indications that the lower chamber may largely adopt the version earlier passed by the Senate, while making only minor adjustments where necessary.

The review follows the House's decision to withdraw its earlier state police proposal in favour of considering the President's executive bill. Lawmakers said the move was necessary to ensure both chambers work with a harmonised framework that addresses Nigeria's growing security challenges while incorporating additional safeguards for the proposed dual policing system.

According to the committee, the legislation seeks to create a constitutional framework for establishing state police services while preserving the role of the federal police. The bill also outlines minimum national standards for state police operations, oversight mechanisms, funding arrangements and conditions under which federal authorities may intervene in state policing matters.

After the committee completes its clause-by-clause consideration, the bill will return to the House for further legislative action before being transmitted to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for approval if passed by the National Assembly. Constitutional amendments require the endorsement of at least 24 state legislatures before they can be presented to the President for assent.