The Nigerian Senate has imposed a November 15 deadline on the six state assemblies that have not yet ratified the proposed state police bill, bringing the total number of states that have approved the legislation to 30.
The state police bill, which seeks to establish police forces under the jurisdiction of individual states rather than the federal police, has already been endorsed by thirty of the country’s thirty‑six states. The remaining six assemblies now have until mid‑November to give their assent, after which the bill can move forward to the next stage of implementation.
Senate officials indicated that the deadline is intended to accelerate the rollout of the state police framework, which has been a subject of debate since it was first introduced. Proponents argue that state‑run police forces will improve security and allow for more localized law‑enforcement strategies, while critics have raised concerns about potential duplication of resources and coordination challenges.
State governments that have already passed the bill are preparing to set up the necessary administrative structures, including recruitment, training and budgeting for their new police units. The federal government has pledged support for the transition, emphasizing that the state police will operate in conjunction with the national police force.
If the six pending assemblies meet the November 15 deadline, the state police bill could be fully enacted across all Nigerian states, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to internal security.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>