Lagos Assembly backs establishment of State Police, commends Tinubu, National Assembly

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have unanimously approved the proposed establishment of State police after the consideration of the constitutional amendment bill transmitted by the National Assembly.

The lawmakers who gave their approval during plenary on Tuesday, shortened their recess to consider the bill.

The proposed constitutional amendment, titled the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Act, 2026, seeks to provide for the establishment of the State Police Service and related matters.

Speaking after reading the relevant sections of the proposed amendment, the Speaker of the House, Obasa said the establishment of State police had remained a recurring issue from the fifth to the Tenth Assembly, with successive legislatures discussing ways to strengthen security and protect lives and property.

Obasa described the development as a step forward, pointing out that concerns raised by State legislatures, particularly those relating to control and the relationship between federal and state policing, should be adequately addressed.

Obasa said he was pleased that the issue of state police had received attention, expressing hope that further developments would give states greater control over their policing arrangements.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and democratic institutions, as well as the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and the House of Representatives, for their contributions to the amendment process.

The Speaker further commended State Houses of Assembly for supporting the proposal, noting that nearly 25 States had expressed support for the constitutional alteration.

Obasa also called for a clear constitutional provision for parliamentary police to protect legislative institutions and preserve their independence, citing past incidents in which state legislative buildings had allegedly been demolished or locked up at the instance of governors.

He said establishing parliamentary police would help prevent such incidents, strengthen state legislatures and safeguard democracy. The Speaker expressed confidence that outstanding issues would be addressed as the process continued.