House of Representatives passes State Police Bill amid growing calls for stronger state-level security structures and improved policing.

The House of Representatives on Thursday passed the State Police Bill as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process, marking a significant milestone in efforts to reform Nigeria’s security architecture.

The bill seeks to transfer policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List, thereby empowering states to establish and manage their own police formations.

The proposed legislation is aimed at addressing the country’s growing security challenges, including kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes.

The proposal, championed by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and other lawmakers, had earlier passed second reading before scaling the latest legislative hurdle during the constitutional amendment voting process.

Supporters of the bill argue that state police will improve intelligence gathering, enhance community policing, and strengthen security response at the grassroots level. However, concerns have also been raised over the potential misuse of state-controlled police forces by political actors, prompting calls for adequate safeguards and accountability mechanisms

With the House’s approval, the constitutional amendment will proceed through the remaining legislative processes, including consideration by state Houses of Assembly, before it can become law. If eventually adopted, it will represent one of the most significant reforms to Nigeria’s policing system since the return to democratic governance in 1999.