Reps Minority Caucus Demands Review of State Police Bill

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives, led by Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda, has urged for a comprehensive review of the proposed State Police Bill prior to its final passage. The caucus, which includes Minority Whip Hon. Ali Isa J.C., Deputy Minority Leader Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki, and Deputy Minority Whip Hon. George Ozodinobi, expressed concerns regarding potential abuse, political interference, and the necessity for operational safeguards within the legislation.

They acknowledged the pressing issue of insecurity in Nigeria and the need for reforms in the policing system but insisted that the establishment of state police must be supported by robust constitutional and institutional protections. The caucus called for broader consultations with stakeholders, including state governments and civil society organizations, to enhance the proposed framework.

They emphasized the importance of clear provisions on recruitment, funding, operational independence, and accountability to prevent politically controlled security outfits, asserting that without adequate safeguards, state police could lead to human rights violations.