Sanwo-Olu welcomes state police bill, seeks states’ support

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu following the Senate’s passage of the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police across the country.

The senate on Wednesday approved all 26 clauses of the bill during consideration in the Committee of the Whole, a development widely regarded as a major step toward restructuring Nigeria’s security framework and strengthening internal security.

In a statement personally signed by him, Sanwo-Olu described the senate’s approval as an epoch-making moment in the nation’s democratic journey and a significant milestone in the pursuit of true federalism.

According to the governor, the move demonstrates President Tinubu’s longstanding commitment to devolving powers and creating a governance structure that allows states to play a more active role in addressing security challenges within their jurisdictions.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the establishment of state police would enhance efforts to combat terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities by enabling security responses that are better tailored to local realities.

He praised Tinubu’s vision and resilience, recalling that the president had consistently advocated for state police since his tenure as governor of Lagos State between 1999 and 2007, when he championed several reforms aimed at strengthening federalism.

“Today is a great day for our country—a day to celebrate the triumph of genuine democratic and developmental ideas over parochial sentiments. State Police has been top of mind for President Tinubu since 1999 when he governed Lagos. We are happy to witness its emergence in Nigeria, and all thanks to a leader whose life is defined by service to our nation,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor also commended the senate for what he described as a historic decision and urged state Houses of Assembly across the federation to support the initiative by approving the bill when it is transmitted to them for consideration, paving the way for its eventual implementation.