Nigeria Senate Passes Bill for State Police
Nigeria's Senate passed a constitutional amendment bill to establish state police on June 24, 2026.
June 25, 2026
1 min read
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Source: bbc.com
Nigeria's Senate passed a constitutional amendment bill to establish state police on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The bill aims to decentralize policing in the country, allowing states to create their own police forces.
The passage followed a debate among lawmakers, with supporters arguing it would improve security by enabling states to address local crime more effectively. Critics have raised concerns about potential abuse by state governors.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for concurrence. If passed, it will require approval by at least 24 of Nigeria's 36 state assemblies before becoming law.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does the bill to establish state police in Nigeria entail?
The bill is a constitutional amendment that would allow each of Nigeria's 36 states to create and manage their own police force, separate from the federal police.
What are the next steps for the state police bill?
The bill must be passed by the House of Representatives and then approved by at least 24 state assemblies before it can become law.
Why is the state police bill controversial in Nigeria?
Supporters say it will improve local security, but critics fear state governors could misuse the police for political purposes or to suppress opposition.