The Federal House of Representatives have passed the State Police Bill after withdrawing its earlier request for a constitutional amendment before the bill is passed.
The passage also follows the Nigerian Senate’s approval of its version of the legislation, bringing the country closer to adopting a dual policing system aimed at strengthening internal security and improving law enforcement at the state level.
Proposed State Police Establishment
One of the key provisions of the new bill empowers state governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their respective states, subject to confirmation by state Houses of Assembly.
Under the proposed amendment, the Federal Police Service will continue to be headed by the Inspector-General of Police, while each state police command will be led by a Commissioner of Police appointed by the governor and approved by the state legislature.
The bill also grants governors authority to issue lawful written directives on public safety and public order matters within their states.
To address longstanding concerns that state police could be used as political tools, lawmakers included provisions aimed at protecting civil liberties and political freedoms.
The legislation specifically prohibits state police commissioners from arresting, detaining, investigating or deploying force against individuals, political parties or groups solely for criticising government actions, except where such actions are carried out in accordance with the law.
Following adoption by the House of Representatives, state police services can now be established to operate alongside the federal police structure, potentially transforming how Nigeria responds to challenges such as banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, communal conflicts and other security threats.
