11th June, 2026 | News

House of Representatives Moves Forward on State Police Constitutional Amendment

The House of Representatives has released the final version of a series of Constitution Alteration Bills, including a landmark proposal to establish a constitutional framework for state police in Nigeria. The bills are scheduled for consideration and voting during the House plenary session today.

The proposed amendments form part of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and represent the outcome of months of legislative consultations and stakeholder engagement coordinated by the House Committee on Constitution Review.

According to a statement issued by House spokesman, Rep. Akintunde Rotimi, the bills were developed after extensive input from lawmakers, government agencies, professional associations, civil society groups, traditional institutions, and citizens nationwide.

The review process included public hearings, town hall meetings, expert consultations, and stakeholder engagements conducted across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to ensure broad participation and representation.

Key Areas of Constitutional Reform

The Constitution Alteration Bills cover a wide range of issues, including:

• Electoral reforms
• Judicial reforms
• Security and policing
• Local government administration
• Inclusive governance and citizenship
• Legislative matters
• Devolution of powers
• Human rights protections
• Fiscal reforms
• Institutional strengthening
• Traditional institutions
• Creation of states and local governments

State Police Proposal Takes Centre Stage

Among the proposed amendments, the state police bill has attracted the greatest public attention and debate. The proposal seeks to create a constitutional basis for state-controlled police forces as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security framework.

The bill outlines operational guidelines, oversight mechanisms, constitutional safeguards, and a clear division of responsibilities between federal and state policing authorities. Supporters argue that the initiative will enable more responsive and localized approaches to addressing security challenges across the country.

Lawmakers say the proposal reflects growing national support for reforms aimed at improving public safety through decentralised policing structures.

Kalu: Reform Reflects Nigerians’ Aspirations

Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the release of the final draft as a major milestone in the constitutional reform process.

He said the proposed amendments are the result of extensive consultations, bipartisan cooperation, and careful legislative scrutiny.

According to Kalu, the state police proposal is particularly significant because it responds to longstanding calls for a more effective and decentralised security system capable of addressing emerging threats across the federation.

He emphasized that the House remains committed to strengthening democratic governance, deepening federalism, promoting inclusion, enhancing national security, and building institutions capable of supporting Nigeria’s development.

Voting Expected During Plenary

The House is expected to deliberate and vote on the constitutional amendment bills during today’s plenary session, provided the required constitutional quorum is achieved.

If sufficient attendance is not attained, consideration and voting will be postponed until the next legislative sitting in accordance with constitutional provisions and House rules.

The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to an open, transparent, and inclusive constitutional review process aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, improving governance, promoting national unity, increasing citizen participation, and addressing the evolving needs of Nigerians.