House of Reps Delays Mines Ranger Bill Over Police Role Concerns

The House of Representatives has stepped down a bill aimed at establishing the Nigeria Mines Ranger Service due to concerns about potential conflicts with the Nigeria Police Force's constitutional responsibilities. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu (Rep, Bende) raised these concerns during the Committee of the Whole while discussing the bill (SB.253), sponsored by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere (Rep, Owan East/Owan West).

The bill seeks to create a dedicated service to combat illegal mining and related crimes. The main point of contention was Clause 23, which grants the proposed service the power to obtain information and access records from individuals and authorities.

Kalu questioned whether this provision would allow the Rangers to perform investigative functions that should belong to the police, suggesting that they should only arrest suspects and hand them over to the police. Ihonvbere acknowledged the need for amendments but defended preliminary investigative powers as necessary for the Rangers to effectively assist the police in prosecutions.