Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged his colleagues to ensure full attendance as the National Assembly gears up for what he described as one of the most consequential constitutional votes in Nigeria's democratic history. The vote, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, concerns the amendment of the constitution to establish state police services across the country.
Tinubu Transmits Constitution Alteration Bill
Akpabio's call came after President Bola Tinubu formally transmitted the Constitution Alteration Bill to the National Assembly, which seeks the creation of the State Police Service. The Senate is expected to debate the bill during its emergency sittings on Wednesday. Once passed by the National Assembly, the bill will be transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for ratification. Akpabio stressed that the bill requires a two-thirds majority approval from the state assemblies before the president can give his assent.
Background and Public Calls for State Police
Before now, there have been widespread calls on the National Assembly to pass the state police bill as part of efforts to combat insecurity across Nigeria. The country has been grappling with various security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. Akpabio's call for the constitutional amendment has sparked reactions from Nigerians, with many expressing both support and concern.
Public Reactions to the Proposed State Police
Ossana urged the National Assembly to include effective checks and balances in the amendment, stating: "Instead of putting effective checks and balances now in the law creating the state police, he's using his mouth to give advice. Which sitting governor and president ever listens to advice? Most of them will do what they like, even if it goes against the wishes of the people they lead."
Dayo Olobayo expressed fear that governors might abuse the power of state police: "Una never sees anything. The disadvantages of the state will outweigh its advantages. Governors will use this as a tool. Police salaries will be at the hands of governors. In a country where we abuse everything? You want to give them state police? Carry on."
Smartofficial decried the apprehension surrounding the creation of state police: "It’s a shame to see how a state police force is about to be created, but the same people are afraid for it not to be hijacked or used to oppress the poor. Even the rich and poor know the problem of this country."
Dewale Adetokunbo Aleshe expressed optimism: "It will get better with time; we have to start to know the practical flaws and then make amendments."
Next Steps for the Bill
If the bill passes the Senate and House of Representatives, it will be sent to the 36 state assemblies. A two-thirds majority (24 states) is required for ratification before President Tinubu can sign it into law. The vote on Wednesday marks a critical step in the process, as Nigeria seeks to decentralize its police force to address persistent insecurity.
