Senate Set to Pass State Police Bill Today – Spokesperson

The Senate is expected to pass the State Police Bill today as lawmakers reconvene for an emergency plenary session focused on key national security reforms.

According to the Senate Spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the proposed legislation is among the top priorities for consideration during the sitting, which was called during the ongoing recess to address urgent national issues.

The bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow the establishment of state-controlled police forces alongside the existing federal police structure. It has already passed second reading and is currently undergoing further legislative scrutiny by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review.

Lawmakers are now expected to move into the final stages of approval, which requires a two-thirds majority due to the constitutional nature of the amendment. If passed, the bill will still need to be approved by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly before it can become law.

Supporters of the proposal argue that decentralising policing will improve intelligence gathering, strengthen rapid response to crime, and enhance security at the grassroots level. The move comes amid rising concerns over insecurity across several parts of the country.

However, the proposal has also generated debate, with critics warning that state-controlled police structures could be misused if proper safeguards are not put in place.

The emergency plenary follows growing pressure on the National Assembly to deliver reforms aimed at addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.