The National Assembly has taken a fresh step in Nigeria’s push for policing reforms. The House of Representatives has withdrawn its state police bill to consider President Bola Tinubu’s proposal.
ABUJA, FCT — The House of Representatives has withdrawn its state police bill to allow lawmakers consider President Bola Tinubu’s proposal on the establishment of state police in Nigeria. The decision marks a new stage in ongoing efforts to reform the country’s policing system, according to the House.
Why This Happened
The House said the withdrawal would enable lawmakers to review the President’s proposal alongside existing legislative efforts on state policing. The move is expected to help harmonise different recommendations before any final decision is taken.
The issue of state police has remained a major topic in national discussions on security, with supporters arguing that decentralised policing could improve local security responses.
What They Said
According to the House of Representatives, lawmakers agreed to withdraw the earlier bill to give full consideration to the proposal submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
Details of the President’s proposal are expected to be examined during the legislative process before any revised bill is presented for debate and possible passage.
Background to the Story
The call for state police has gained momentum in recent years as Nigeria continues to explore ways to strengthen internal security. Several governors, security experts and stakeholders have supported the creation of state-controlled police, while others have raised concerns about oversight, funding and possible misuse.
Any amendment to establish state police would require constitutional changes and approval through the legislative process.
What This Means for Nigeria
The development means discussions on state police are entering a new phase, with lawmakers expected to review the Presidency’s recommendations before making further decisions. The outcome of the process could shape future policing reforms and influence how security responsibilities are shared between the federal and state governments.
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