Nigeria TV Info 

36 State Assembly Speakers Back State Police as Constitutional Review Enters Final Phase

The Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly has expressed strong support for the establishment of state police, describing it as a necessary step to tackle Nigeria's growing security challenges. The Speakers said decentralising policing would strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response to crime, and enhance community-based security across the country.

Speaking during deliberations on the ongoing constitutional amendment process, the Conference noted that state police has gained widespread support from stakeholders, including state governments, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and security experts. They maintained that appropriate constitutional safeguards, funding mechanisms, and oversight measures should be put in place to prevent abuse of power by state authorities.

The Speakers also disclosed that the constitutional review process has entered its final stage, with state legislatures expected to consider and vote on the proposed amendments. Since constitutional amendments require approval by at least two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly, the position of the 36 Speakers is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome.

Supporters argue that state police will complement existing federal security agencies and improve responses to local security threats such as banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal conflicts. However, critics have called for strong legal protections to ensure professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights.

If approved, the amendment could mark one of the most significant reforms to Nigeria's policing and security architecture since the country's return to democratic rule.