The Nigerian Senate has announced that the amendments to the 1999 Constitution for the creation of state police will be passed later this week. The bill will then be transmitted to the 38 State Houses of Assembly for further legislative action.
Senate Leader's Announcement
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, disclosed this in a statement shared on his social media page on Monday, June 8. He emphasized that all stakeholders in the country are aligned with the National Assembly on the creation of state police. According to Bamidele, state governors and President Bola Tinubu also support the bill.
He noted that the legislative week, beginning on Tuesday, June 9, would be crucial for the Senate. The Ekiti-born politician explained that the National Assembly leadership, the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu, and other stakeholders held a series of meetings in recent weeks. They expressed readiness for the passage of the bill.
Next Steps After Passage
Bamidele added that after the National Assembly passes the bill, it will be transmitted to the state Houses of Assembly for ratification. He stressed that the bill requires a two-thirds majority of the 36 state assemblies before the president can assent to it.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The statement has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians. Below are some comments:
- Ibrahim Babangida projected drama ahead: "Uhmmm... I'm more interested in the political gimmick that will come from the state house of assembly; it's obvious now that the governors are not all in for the state police... good luck, sir... let's see how it goes."
- Esyes said it is what Nigeria needs: "I'm glad this is coming up! It's what our country truly needs at this moment. However, the screening of candidates enrolling in the state police also has to be rigorous, as terrorists are always trying to infiltrate the system."
- Cpthemonarchh questioned the senator: "Honourable Senator, Good evening.. Apart from this, please, we want to see the development you have brought to your senatorial zone... Good schools? Hospitals? Good roads? Electricity? Water? We are now asking our political leaders questions. This is not the time for play."
- Prince Olamilekan Ademarati welcomed the development: "Welcome development."
More comments can be found on social media platforms.
