The Nigerian Senate is set to deliberate on the final report regarding the establishment of state police within the week, according to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. He made this announcement during a press conference held in Abuja on Monday, emphasizing that the initiative is part of the National Assembly’s broader strategy to tackle the country’s escalating security issues.
Bamidele, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, revealed that the committee is ready to present its findings and recommendations to the upper chamber. Once the proposal receives approval from the National Assembly, it will be forwarded to the 36 state legislatures for their consent, a critical step in the constitutional amendment process.
“We have resolved to move forward with the constitutional amendment that makes provision for state police, and I can confirm that this will be finalized this week without further delay,” Bamidele stated.
He disclosed that federal lawmakers have conducted multiple meetings with key stakeholders in recent weeks, including President Bola Tinubu, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, and Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu. These consultations were aimed at refining the proposed state policing framework to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with national security goals.
The move has been widely anticipated as a potential solution to Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, with proponents arguing that state-level policing could improve response times and local accountability. The Senate’s consideration this week marks a significant step toward potential implementation.