Tinubu Urges National Assembly to Embed Safeguards in State Police Bill Amid Federalism Debate!
Reported by sadauna Lydia edeh (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the National Assembly to ensure robust constitutional and institutional safeguards in ongoing deliberations on the proposed state police framework, warning that the reform must not open avenues for political abuse at the subnational level.
Speaking during high level engagements with federal lawmakers in Abuja, Tinubu stressed that while decentralising policing remains critical to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, any legislation establishing state controlled police forces must contain clear checks and balances to prevent misuse by state executives.
Nigeria currently operates a centralised policing structure under the Nigeria Police Force, as provided by the 1999 Constitution. However, escalating insecurity including banditry, terrorism, communal conflicts and kidnappings has intensified calls for constitutional amendments to allow states greater control over internal security architecture.
Balancing Security Reform and Democratic Safeguards
According to presidential aides and lawmakers present at the discussions, Tinubu acknowledged growing public demand for state policing but cautioned that the design must be “carefully structured.” He referenced Nigeria’s political history, noting concerns that without institutional safeguards, state police structures could be weaponised against political opponents, civil society actors, or minority groups.
The President reportedly urged legislators to incorporate oversight mechanisms, operational independence clauses, funding transparency provisions, and federal regulatory standards to ensure accountability and alignment with national security objectives.
The debate over state police has gained traction across party lines. Governors under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum have repeatedly advocated constitutional reforms to enable states to establish their own policing institutions, arguing that proximity to communities enhances intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
Renewed Momentum for Constitutional Amendment
Security restructuring has become a prominent feature of ongoing constitutional review processes in the National Assembly. Lawmakers are examining proposals that would amend relevant sections of the Constitution to formally recognize state police while defining their operational scope relative to federal security agencies.
Proponents argue that Nigeria’s vast geography and population size demand decentralised security coordination. Critics, however, warn of risks including politicisation, funding disparities among states, and potential conflicts of jurisdiction between federal and state authorities.
Recent reports by major media organisations, including The Punch, Premium Times, and Channels Television, have highlighted the renewed executive legislative engagement on the state police question and the President’s emphasis on institutional safeguards.
A Defining Moment for Nigeria’s Federal Structure
For many analysts, the state police debate reflects broader tensions within Nigeria’s federal arrangement particularly questions surrounding devolution of powers, fiscal autonomy, and institutional reform.
Tinubu’s intervention signals a calibrated approach: support for decentralisation, but with constitutional guardrails to protect democratic norms and civil liberties. The coming months are expected to see intensified public hearings, expert consultations, and intergovernmental negotiations as lawmakers refine amendment proposals.
As Nigeria navigates persistent security pressures, the outcome of this legislative process may prove pivotal in shaping the country’s evolving federal structure and internal security architecture.
Sources: The Punch; Premium Times; Channels Television.
Sadauna Lydia Edeh is a student of Plant Science and Biotechnology at Kogi State University with a deep passion for research, critical thinking, and applying knowledge to real-world challenges. Driven by curiosity and a commitment to personal and professional growth, she excels at breaking down complex ideas into clear, actionable insights.
With strong expertise in research, analytical thinking, and effective written communication, Sadauna Lydia Edeh is skilled at organizing information, explaining concepts with clarity, and delivering precise, well-structured work. She thrives in both independent and collaborative environments, demonstrating adaptability, responsibility, and excellent time-management skills.
Motivated, open to learning, and committed to excellence, she values consistency, clarity, and meaningful engagement. Through her contributions, Sadauna Lydia Edeh aims to inform, inspire, and positively impact readers across Africa and beyond.
About The Author
Share this:
Discover more from Sele Media Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
