By Muhammad Mamman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Senate to initiate constitutional amendments that would pave the way for the establishment of state police, in what could mark one of the most significant security reforms since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
Addressing lawmakers in Abuja, Tinubu said the growing complexity of Nigeria’s security challenges demands a decentralised policing structure that empowers states to take greater responsibility for internal security.
Nigeria currently operates a centralised policing system under the Nigeria Police Force, as provided for in the 1999 Constitution. Advocates of state police argue that localised security outfits would be more responsive to community-level threats, including banditry, kidnapping and communal clashes.
The president urged the Senate to commence the constitutional review process without delay, describing it as “critical to strengthening national security architecture and deepening federalism”.
The proposal, however, is expected to spark renewed debate across the country. Supporters say state-controlled police would enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response, while critics warn of potential abuse by state governors and the risk of politicising law enforcement.
Previous attempts to amend the Constitution to allow state police have stalled in the National Assembly amid concerns over accountability, funding and operational control.
Security has remained a top priority for the Tinubu administration, which has faced mounting pressure to curb violent crime and insurgency in several parts of the country.
Any constitutional amendment would require the approval of two-thirds of both chambers of the National Assembly and endorsement by at least 24 of Nigeria’s 36 state Houses of Assembly before it can take effect.
