Nigeria TV Info 

Senate Rejects Criticism of State Police Bill, Says National Security Comes Before Politics

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed criticisms surrounding the proposed State Police Bill, insisting that the initiative is driven by the urgent need to strengthen national security rather than political interests.

Speaking during deliberations on the bill, lawmakers maintained that Nigeria's growing security challenges—including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, communal clashes, and other violent crimes—require a more decentralized policing system capable of responding swiftly to local threats.

The Senate argued that establishing state police would enhance intelligence gathering, improve community policing, and enable state governments to play a more active role in safeguarding lives and property. According to lawmakers, the proposal is designed to complement the operations of the Nigeria Police Force, not replace it.

Responding to concerns that state police could be abused by governors for political purposes, senators stated that the proposed legislation contains constitutional safeguards, oversight mechanisms, and accountability measures to prevent misuse of the system.

The upper legislative chamber emphasized that the debate should focus on finding lasting solutions to Nigeria's security crisis instead of politicizing reforms intended to protect citizens. Senators called on stakeholders, civil society groups, and Nigerians to engage constructively with the legislative process and contribute ideas that would strengthen the bill.

The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to passing laws that promote peace, security, and national development, stressing that the safety of Nigerians must remain the nation's highest priority.