0
ASABA – The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria has welcomed the Senate’s passage of the State Police Bill for second reading, describing the development as a significant milestone in the ongoing constitutional amendment process and the nation’s efforts to strengthen security and federalism.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Right Honourable Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the Conference said the advancement of the bill reflects growing national consensus on the need for a more responsive and community-based policing system.
The Conference recalled that it had previously expressed support for the proposed legislation, noting that state policing, when properly structured within the framework of the law, would improve security, enhance response times, and address local security challenges more effectively.
According to the Speakers, security is fundamentally a local issue, and communities deserve policing structures that understand their unique environments and concerns.
As the bill progresses to the next stage of the constitutional amendment process, the Conference assured Nigerians that the 36 State Houses of Assembly would give the proposal thorough and objective consideration in line with Section 9(2) of the 1999 Constitution. It added that state legislatures would engage relevant stakeholders, conduct public hearings where necessary, and deliberate on the bill in the interest of national unity and the protection of lives and property.
The Conference also commended the Senate for advancing the legislation and urged all stakeholders to continue the conversation with patriotism, factual engagement, and a shared commitment to improving the country’s security architecture.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance, the Conference pledged to work closely with the National Assembly, the Executive, and other arms of government to ensure the successful passage of constitutional amendments that strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and governance.
The statement was signed by Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
