The push to establish state police in Nigeria is gaining legislative momentum, with the Senate emphasizing the need for strong safeguards to ensure accountability and public trust.
Deputy President of the Senate, Barau I. Jibrin, made this known while engaging with a police committee working on a framework for state policing as part of ongoing constitutional reforms.
Barau, who also chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, stressed that any move to decentralise policing must be guided by clear structures that prevent abuse and promote transparency.
The meeting followed the inauguration of a committee by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to develop proposals for the creation of state police across the country.
Speaking during the engagement in Abuja, Barau noted that concerns raised by Nigerians during public hearings on constitutional amendments must be addressed before any final decision is made.
He explained that issues such as misuse of power, political interference, and accountability mechanisms remain central to public debates on state policing.
The Senate, he said, is committed to ensuring that any constitutional amendment establishing state and community police reflects the interests of citizens while strengthening national security.
Chairman of the police committee, Olu Ogunsakin, said the team is consulting widely and working to develop a comprehensive framework that aligns with legislative expectations.
He added that the committee is engaging key stakeholders and seeking input from the National Assembly to ensure its recommendations are robust and inclusive.
The proposed legislation before the constitution review committee seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow for the establishment of state and community police, aimed at improving grassroots security and enhancing community-based law enforcement.
The Senate had earlier conducted public hearings across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to gather citizens’ views, reflecting growing interest in restructuring the country’s policing system.
Observers say the current phase of consultations signals a critical step toward potential reforms that could reshape Nigeria’s security architecture if successfully implemented.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.