Nigeria has moved a step closer to creating state police after both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed separate versions of the Constitution Alteration Bill. However, the two versions are not yet identical and must first be harmonised before they are sent to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for approval.
Why are there two versions?
In Nigeria’s lawmaking process, the Senate and the House of Representatives often consider the same bill independently. Where there are differences, a conference committee made up of members from both chambers reconciles them into one final version.
What are the major differences?
The Senate’s version is broader and more detailed. It contains 26 clauses compared to the House’s 18 clauses and proposes amendments to 11 sections of the Constitution, while the House seeks changes to eight sections.
One major difference is implementation. The Senate includes transitional provisions that explain how state police would be established and managed from the beginning. The House does not include these provisions.
Another key difference is leadership. The Senate proposes that each state police organisation be headed by a Commander, while the House retains the title of Commissioner of Police.
The Senate also places greater emphasis on national policing standards, oversight, accountability and funding arrangements. It proposes additional constitutional amendments dealing with finances, governance, appointments and administration. The House focuses more on appointments, command structure and the removal of senior police officers.
What do both chambers agree on?
Despite the differences, both versions agree on the central idea of creating state police through a constitutional amendment.
Both also:
– Replace the existing Section 214 of the Constitution.
– Amend Sections 215 and 216.
– Retain the National Police Council to set minimum policing standards.
– Require states to meet national standards before establishing state police.
– Provide safeguards against abuse, including sanctions for non-compliant state police organisations.
What happens next?
The two chambers will harmonise their versions after the House resumes on July 7. Once a single version is agreed upon, it must be approved by at least 24 of Nigeria’s 36 State Houses of Assembly before it is sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.
Why does it matter?
If eventually approved, state police would represent one of Nigeria’s biggest constitutional reforms since 1999. Supporters believe it will improve local security by allowing states to respond more effectively to crime and insecurity. Critics, however, warn that strong safeguards will be needed to prevent political interference or abuse of the new police forces.
The harmonisation stage will determine the final structure, powers and oversight mechanisms of any future state police system in Nigeria.
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