Tinubu Sends State Police Bill to National Assembly

On October 24, 2023, President Bola Tinubu formally transmitted the State Police Bill to the National Assembly, signaling a significant move towards overhauling Nigeria's police architecture. The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, expressed readiness to fast-track the bill amid increasing calls for decentralization of the security structure.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to establish state police services across Nigeria, addressing the country's worsening security challenges. The bill includes safeguards to prevent potential misuse by state governors and emphasizes accountability mechanisms.

State governors have reiterated their demand for substantial control over the appointment and operational processes of state police commands. The bill proposes allocating 3% of the federal account to support state police operations, although there is contention regarding the sufficiency of this funding.

The Senate plans to expedite the legislative process, with Akpabio assuring that the bill will be reviewed and reported back for further legislative action promptly.