BREAKING: State police bill passes second reading in House of Reps

The bill, initiated by the deputy speaker and endorsed by 14 other members, was passed and referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review.

Some members expressed concerns about potential misuse by state governors for coercion and victimization.

During the bill’s debate, Tolani Shagaya (APC, Kwara) argued that implementing state police would restore true federalism, empowering states to effectively address security challenges. Shagaya emphasized that state police would be better equipped to handle insecurity in various communities and combat crime within the legal framework.

Ssighting existing examples like Amotekun and Neighborhood Watch, Shagaya noted that the bill aims to provide legal backing for such entities, allowing them to operate within the confines of the law. Supporting the bill’s second reading, Ahmed Jaha (APC, Borno) cited the success of the Civilian Joint Task Force in Borno state against Boko Haram, suggesting that involving locals in state police would enhance intelligence gathering. Jaha emphasized that the military’s involvement in internal security is a result of the failure of existing measures.

Further details are expected shortly.