Ondo Assembly Approves State Police for Enhanced Security

The Ondo State House of Assembly has approved a proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution to establish state police in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for decentralized policing to address insecurity and protect farmers. The approval occurred during a plenary session on Monday, following the bill's transmission by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. Kamoru Ogunlana, on September 24.

The bill passed its second and third readings with more than the required two-thirds majority. Speaker Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji stated that the establishment of state police has been a significant topic in Nigeria for over two decades and is crucial for improving security and governance.

The assembly believes that state police can complement the Federal Police Service by focusing on state-specific security issues, thereby allowing federal agencies to concentrate on more complex crimes. The lawmakers expressed particular concern for the safety of farmers and rural communities, asserting that enhanced security would encourage agricultural participation and safeguard livelihoods.