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Nigeria’s proposed State Police system has hit a fresh hurdle, with only four state Houses of Assembly — Edo, Osun, Oyo and Rivers – so far giving formal approval to the constitutional amendment required to establish it.
The National Assembly had transmitted the amendment bill to all 36 state legislatures in September, asking them to consider the proposal and communicate their decisions. Although lawmakers were encouraged to respond within 30 days, the period is administrative and not a constitutional deadline.
For the amendment to move forward, at least 24 of the 36 state assemblies must approve it. With only four states currently on record as having endorsed the proposal, another 20 assemblies are still required to meet the constitutional threshold.
Several states are still examining the proposal, while others have yet to begin formal debate. In the South-East, most assemblies have not commenced consideration, with the Abia State House of Assembly expected to take up the matter when lawmakers resume on October 6.
The proposed reform is being promoted as a way to bring policing closer to communities and strengthen the country’s security architecture. However, concerns over implementation, funding, accountability and possible political interference remain key issues as state lawmakers determine the future of the proposal.
