Nigerian lawmakers reconvened for an emergency plenary during the recess to receive a fresh constitution alteration bill on state police. The session came barely two weeks after the Senate passed an executive bill on state police through second reading, signalling a renewed push on the long debated issue.
At the plenary, the Senate president presented the bill, which seeks to amend relevant provisions of the 1999 constitution. The aim of the proposed amendment is to create a constitutional pathway for the establishment of state police services in the country.
According to the presentation, the Senate is to build on the significant work already done in this regard by the House of Representatives and the Senate. The chamber would then proceed from that foundation rather than starting the process afresh.
The bill is also intended to incorporate additional safeguards into the framework being considered. These safeguards are meant to guide the creation of what was described as a dual policing structure within the country.
The stated purpose of the dual policing structure is to address the nation's evolving national security challenges. Lawmakers indicated that this should be achieved quickly and effectively, in a manner described as being to the benefit of all Nigerians.
Presenting the bill, the Senate president expressed confidence that the Senate would act quickly to consider it. The decision to hold an emergency plenary during the recess underscored the priority the chamber is placing on advancing the state police framework.