NASS sends State Police Bill to 36 state assemblies for approval

The National Assembly transmitted the Constitution (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, which provides for the establishment of state police, to the 36 State Houses of Assembly on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana said the transmission follows Section 9 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and that state legislatures have 30 days to communicate their resolutions, noting this period is administrative, not a constitutional deadline.

For the amendment to proceed, at least two‑thirds of the state assemblies—24 states—must approve the bill. If approved, states would be empowered to create and manage their own police forces, a shift aimed at improving local security and addressing Nigeria’s policing challenges. The bill is part of a broader package of constitutional reforms that also includes proposals for local government autonomy, independent candidacy, and reserved legislative seats for women.

Citizens should watch how their state assembly votes and consider what a state police force could mean for community safety, local governance budgets, and relationship with the federal police.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/17/nass-sends-state-police-bill-to-36-states-for-approval/