The House of Representatives on Tuesday, February 20, passed for a second reading, a bill seeking to amend the 1999 constitution to allow for the establishment of state police.
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.
Rice, a staple for Christmas celebrations in Nigeria, has become a luxury this year. Soaring…
Panic erupted on Saturday at a concert in Lagos when the stage collapsed during Odumodublvck’s…
The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated ₦6,364,181,224 billion for the refurbishment and rehabilitation of…
The black market dollar to naira exchange rate for today, 22nd December 2024, can be…
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has refuted claims that the 60,000 barrels per…
Manchester City finds itself in unprecedented turmoil, with relegation-level form showing little sign of improvement.…
