The Nigerian Senate has defended the passage of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, stating that 84 of the 109 senators voted in favour of the proposal during its clause-by-clause consideration. According to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the outcome reflects broad bipartisan support and demonstrates that the bill was driven by national interest rather than partisan politics.
Bamidele dismissed claims that the proposed creation of state police was politically motivated, explaining that the legislation followed extensive consultations with the Executive, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, the Nigeria Police, and other stakeholders. He added that public hearings held across the country’s six geopolitical zones in 2025 also produced overwhelming support for the reform, which he described as a response to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
The bill has already been transmitted to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for consideration, a constitutional requirement before it can receive presidential assent. If at least 24 state assemblies approve the amendment, it will move to President Bola Tinubu for final approval, potentially paving the way for the establishment of state police forces across Nigeria. Supporters believe the reform will strengthen grassroots security, while critics have expressed concerns about possible political misuse by state governments.
