Nigeria Moves to Establish State Police Amid Security Concerns

The National Assembly is progressing with a constitutional amendment bill aimed at establishing state police in Nigeria. This initiative has gained momentum, with Mukhtari Shagari, the former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State and ex-Minister of Water Resources, urging for its urgent approval.

The proposed amendment seeks to create a framework that delineates responsibilities between federal and state police, ensuring that state police can operate independently while federal police retain national security functions. The legislation stipulates that state police will not commence operations until relevant laws are enacted to meet national standards.

Additionally, the amendment includes provisions for federal police to assist state police when necessary, with oversight from the National Police Council. The proposed structure also outlines the appointment processes for police leadership at both federal and state levels, emphasizing safeguards against abuse of power and ensuring accountability.

The bill aims to address the urgent need for security reforms in Nigeria amidst rising insecurity.