Senate receives proposed framework for state police reform
The push for the creation of state police in Nigeria has advanced following the submission of a comprehensive framework to the National Assembly by a committee set up by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The 75-page proposal, presented on Thursday by the committee chairman, Olu Ogunsakin, was handed over to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Constitution Review.
The document outlines operational guidelines, legal frameworks and safeguards for the establishment of state police, and is expected to guide lawmakers in amending relevant sections of the Constitution.
“It is our expectation that the contents of this report will meaningfully contribute to ongoing deliberations and assist in shaping informed, balanced and pragmatic decisions on this critical aspect of national security architecture,” Ogunsakin said.
Key recommendations include moving policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List, allowing both federal and state governments to operate separate police services. The proposal also suggests clearly defining the roles of federal and state police to avoid duplication of duties.
As part of safeguards, the committee recommended that election security remain under the control of the federal police, while measures should be put in place to prevent governors from exercising unchecked authority over state police formations.
The framework also proposes the creation of state police councils, service commissions and ombudsman offices, with state assemblies responsible for oversight. It further recommends that police personnel be allowed to transfer between federal and state services without losing career benefits.
Receiving the report, Barau described it as proactive and in line with the security reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring that it would be considered alongside other submissions as part of the ongoing constitutional review process.
