The proposed legislation outlines 16 constitutional amendments and introduces a comprehensive framework to ensure coordination, accountability, and standardized practices between federal and state police entities. It also proposes the creation of State Police Service Commissions with defined roles separate from the Federal Police Service Commission.
Moreover, the bill suggests empowering the federal government to offer financial support to states for the establishment of their police forces. During the debate, advocates emphasized the necessity of decentralized law enforcement to address localized security challenges effectively.
Supporters of the bill underscored its importance beyond partisan lines, emphasizing the need for a community-centered policing approach. They argued that the involvement of civilian armed groups, particularly in regions like the North-east combating banditry, underscores the urgency for a revamped security architecture.
However, concerns were raised about potential abuse of power by state governors and the financial capacity of some states to sustain their police forces. Despite these reservations, the majority of lawmakers voiced their support during the vote, leading to the bill's advancement to the Constitution Review Committee for further legislative procedures.
This development marks a significant step towards realizing the establishment of state police, a concept that has faced opposition in the past due to fears of misuse. The bill will undergo further scrutiny and require presidential assent to become law. Notably, discussions on the possibility of setting up state police were also held during a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and state governors in Abuja.
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