The Edo State House of Assembly has given its approval for the establishment of a state police force in Nigeria. This development comes as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process. The bill, which was forwarded to the Assembly by the Clerk of the National Assembly, was passed during a plenary session in Benin City. The passage of the bill is a significant step towards enhancing security in the state.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Osezua Sunday Ojezelle, initiated the debate on the bill, emphasizing its importance in addressing insecurity. He called on members to support the bill, highlighting its potential benefits. Other members, including Hon. Donald Okogbe, Hon. Charity Aiguobarueghian, and Hon. Richard Edosa, contributed to the debate, expressing their views on the proposed state police force. They noted that it would improve security, create jobs for the youth, and bring policing closer to the people.
The bill's passage was moved by Hon. Ojezelle and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Natasha Osawaru Irobosa. The motion was unanimously adopted by the House, demonstrating a unified support for the establishment of a state police force in Edo State. This development is in line with the constitutional amendment process, which requires the approval of at least two-thirds of the 36 State Houses of Assembly after passage by the National Assembly.
The Edo Assembly's approval is a significant milestone in the quest for state police in Nigeria. The proposed state police force is expected to strengthen grassroots security and address the unique security challenges facing the state. According to Hon. Donald Okogbe, the establishment of state police would not only improve security but also create job opportunities for the youth.
Some members of the Assembly, including Hon. Richard Edosa, suggested the establishment of an Edo State Police Commission to regulate and oversee the operations of the state police. This proposal aims to ensure that the state police force operates within a well-defined framework, enhancing its effectiveness and accountability.
The passage of the bill by the Edo Assembly brings the state closer to having a state police force. The next step is for the bill to be passed by the National Assembly and then approved by at least two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly. If successful, this development could pave the way for other states to establish their own police forces.
The Edo State House of Assembly's approval of the bill demonstrates its commitment to addressing the security needs of the state. The establishment of a state police force is expected to have a positive impact on the state's security landscape, enhancing the safety and well-being of its citizens. The bill's passage is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Key points
- The Edo State House of Assembly has unanimously approved the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish a state police force in Nigeria.
- The bill's passage is part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process, requiring approval by at least two-thirds of the 36 State Houses of Assembly.
- The proposed state police force is expected to strengthen grassroots security, create jobs for the youth, and address the unique security challenges facing the state.
