Nigerian Senate Passes Bill to Establish State Police

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill aimed at establishing state police, modifying the 1999 Constitution. The bill, which had previously been passed by the House of Representatives, seeks to create state police services while retaining the responsibilities of the Federal Police Service.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio oversaw the bill's passage, which was debated extensively and received significant support from lawmakers. The bill outlines that no state police can commence operations without a state law certifying compliance with national minimum standards.

It also defines the jurisdiction of state police, including enforcing state laws and maintaining public safety. The Federal Police will continue to exercise policing powers in states until the state police are fully operational.

The bill includes provisions for the appointment of police leadership and emphasizes the protection of human rights and civil liberties. The next step involves harmonizing the bill's content with the executive before it is sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for further action.