The Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the establishment of state police, announcing plans to begin urgent deliberations on the proposal this week as part of broader efforts to tackle the worsening security situation across Nigeria.
Speaking during a media briefing with Senate correspondents, the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed that the issue of state policing has become one of the most important matters under consideration in the ongoing constitutional amendment process.
Bamidele explained that the Senate recognizes the growing demand from Nigerians for a decentralized policing structure and is prepared to accelerate legislative action to make the proposal a reality.
According to him, extensive consultations have already been held with critical stakeholders, and lawmakers are determined to ensure the bill progresses swiftly through the legislative process.
“We are standing with Nigerians on state police. That will come to fruition this week during plenary.
“We have been holding a series of meetings with stakeholders and will fast-track deliberations so that the bill can proceed to the 36 state houses of assembly and eventually receive presidential assent,” he said.
The Senate Leader noted that the move is aimed at strengthening the country’s security architecture amid persistent challenges posed by banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime affecting various parts of the federation.
Bamidele also addressed recent calls for an investigation into the activities of the military, describing such demands as inappropriate at a time when security agencies are confronting serious threats across the country.
He argued that focusing on probing the armed forces amid ongoing security operations could distract attention from efforts to combat insecurity and restore stability in affected communities.
According to him, the nation should instead prioritize supporting security institutions in their efforts to address emerging threats while continuing to seek long-term reforms capable of improving national security.
The Senate Leader further commented on the controversy surrounding the remuneration and welfare packages of lawmakers, promising that the upper legislative chamber would soon take steps to address public concerns regarding the issue.
He stated that the Senate intends to ensure greater transparency by making public details relating to the salaries and allowances of senators, ministers, and other public office holders.
His remarks came in response to recent court pronouncements reportedly questioning the legality of the purchase of Sports Utility Vehicles valued at about ₦110 billion for lawmakers, as well as aspects of their allowance structure.
Defending the acquisition of the vehicles, Bamidele maintained that the SUVs were procured to enable lawmakers effectively carry out constituency responsibilities and other official assignments.
“Every vehicle given to us is meant for constituency work and other official assignments. Public office holders are entitled to such provisions. It is neither strange nor peculiar to lawmakers in Nigeria,” he said.
The senator added that criticism directed at the National Assembly was not unexpected, noting that the legislature often comes under intense public scrutiny because of its oversight functions and role in holding other arms of government accountable.
He stressed that despite the criticism, lawmakers remain committed to discharging their constitutional duties and pursuing reforms aimed at strengthening governance and national development.
The renewed push for state police comes amid increasing calls from governors, traditional rulers, security experts, and civil society groups who argue that a decentralized policing system would improve intelligence gathering, rapid response capabilities, and overall security management at the grassroots level.
If passed by the National Assembly and approved by state legislatures, the state police proposal would represent one of the most significant constitutional reforms in Nigeria’s democratic history.
