Nigeria Senate passes constitutional amendment to create state police

The Nigerian Senate has passed a Constitution Alteration Bill that would establish state‑controlled police services alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force. The amendment creates a dual policing structure, allowing governors to appoint State Commissioners of Police subject to confirmation by state Houses of Assembly. Under Clause 17, safeguards are included to prevent political abuse, such as prohibiting arrests for merely criticizing the government.

The bill was approved by a two‑thirds majority in a manual vote after electronic glitches disrupted the voting process. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted the reform as a step toward stronger internal security. President Bola Tinubu, in a letter read on the Senate floor, urged swift passage, calling the legislation a critical component of his security reform agenda.

Political parties and state leaders have voiced support. The Labour Party praised the constitutional safeguards, while Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia described the passage as “a courageous and timely step.” The Plateau State Assembly pledged priority treatment of the bill when it reaches the state level. The amendment now moves to the 36 state Houses of Assembly, where at least 24 must endorse it before it can be transmitted to the President for assent.