Nigeria's House Withdraws State Police Bill for Executive Proposal

The Nigerian House of Representatives, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abba, announced the withdrawal of its previously passed state police bill to allow for the consideration of a new executive bill proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This decision was made during the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Assembly, where the third-year legislative scorecard of the 10th House was unveiled.

The executive bill is described as robust and comprehensive, aiming to provide a framework for state police services while allowing federal intervention in cases of law and order breakdowns. The bill includes strict conditions for establishing state police services and emphasizes the need for public hearings and scrutiny.

It also reserves certain responsibilities for federal police, including law enforcement and protection of federal institutions. The House's earlier version lacked details on constitutional allocations for police functions, which the executive bill seeks to address by expanding federal powers and ensuring safeguards against potential abuses.