Abdulsalami, Jonathan, others attend state police dialogue in Abuja

Former Nigerian military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retired), ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, and retired Catholic Archbishop John Onaiyekan are among the distinguished individuals currently convened in Abuja for a national dialogue on the topic of state policing. This dialogue, which commenced on Monday, is facilitated by the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The purpose of this gathering is to initiate discussions on the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) Bill 2023, specifically focusing on the Establishment of State Police. Sponsored by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, along with 13 others, this bill represents a significant step towards enhancing public safety and reinforcing law enforcement in Nigeria through the decentralization of policing.

The proposed bill advocates for the inclusion of state police alongside the existing federal police force, delineating a constitutional framework for states interested in establishing and managing their own law enforcement agencies.

In his opening remarks, Kalu, who chairs the House Constitution Review Committee, underscored the bill’s objective, stating that it seeks to clarify the powers and responsibilities of both federal and state police entities, while also addressing matters of funding and oversight.

More details soon.