House of Reps Considers State Police Bill Amid Security Concerns

The House of Representatives in Nigeria has commenced consideration of an executive bill aimed at establishing state police, which was transmitted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria's internal security architecture and reform the constitution.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (Rep, Bende), who chairs the constitutional review committee, noted that the House aims to adopt a version of the bill already passed by the Senate, with minor adjustments as necessary. The House is scheduled to work outside its traditional Tuesday parliamentary sessions due to the urgent nature of the national security situation.

Kalu expressed optimism that once the bill is transmitted to the President, it will receive prompt presidential assent. The proposed legislation includes notable additions such as an introductory section for interpreting provisions designed to facilitate the operationalization of the state police framework.

The bill marks a significant milestone in the ongoing constitutional amendment process, with lawmakers hopeful it will enhance Nigeria's security architecture.