Tinubu Asks Reps To Amend Constitution For State Police

President Bola Tinubu has called on the House of Representatives to revise the 1999 Constitution in order to create a legal framework that would allow for the establishment of state police across the nation.

News indicates that the President emphasized that the suggested amendment to the constitution is a crucial element of his administration’s initiative to rethink Nigeria’s security system in light of the ongoing security issues faced by the country.

Tinubu conveyed his request in a written communication directed to Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, where he forwarded the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, for consideration by the legislature.

The President indicated that the proposed law aims to lay down the constitutional basis for states to form and manage their own police organizations.

He pointed out that this bill is a progression of earlier legislative actions by the House of Representatives regarding this matter.

Tinubu mentioned that the Executive’s suggestion also puts forth measures to guarantee that the transition to a dual policing system is carried out effectively.

“The proposed legislation represents a vital aspect of our administration’s plan to reorganize Nigeria’s security framework in order to provide better safety for our populace,” the President remarked.

He expressed hope that legislators would act promptly in reviewing and approving the bill.

This recent action follows increasing demands from governors, security specialists, and other concerned parties for the creation of state police to combat the escalating insecurity in the country.

Advocates of this initiative argue that decentralizing police services would enhance the gathering of intelligence, promote community-based policing, and bolster responses to crimes like kidnapping, banditry, and communal violence.

The conversation regarding state police has intensified in recent years as states strive for greater authority over their security matters.

Should the National Assembly give its approval, the constitutional amendment would still need to be ratified by the legally required number of state Houses of Assembly before it can become law.

Once the constitutional procedures are finalized, states will gain the authority to set up their own police forces that would operate in tandem with the Nigeria Police Force under the proposed dual policing model.

The Executive remains confident that these reforms will bolster internal security and enhance the safety of lives and property throughout the nation.