Nigerian Senate Passes Bill to Establish State Police

The Nigerian Senate passed a bill aimed at establishing state police services, with Senator Opeyemi Bamidele leading the motion to suspend Senate rules for expedited consideration. The bill seeks to create independent state police services while retaining a strong federal police structure to ensure accountability and safeguard against abuse.

It includes provisions for minimum national police standards and federal intervention only under specific circumstances to protect fundamental rights. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe emphasized the need for constitutional guarantees and oversight to maintain professionalism and independence of state police.

Former Sokoto Governor Senator Aminu Tambuwal supported the bill, describing it as a critical step towards addressing persistent security challenges in Nigeria. The bill received overwhelming support during the debate and was referred to the Committee of the Whole for further legislative consideration.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio underscored the importance of the proposed constitutional amendment to address growing security challenges across the country.