The National Assembly of Nigeria has clarified that only the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish State Police Services has been transmitted to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for consideration and approval. This clarification comes after reports suggested that all Constitution Alteration Bills before the federal legislature had been transmitted to the states. The National Assembly stated that it is only the State Police Bill that has been forwarded to the state legislatures.
According to the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, the bill in question is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026. This bill aims to provide for the establishment of State Police Services and related matters. The National Assembly emphasized that it is incorrect to suggest that all Constitution Alteration Bills before them have been transmitted to the states.
The decision to prioritize the State Police Bill was driven by widespread public demand and the need to address security and policing concerns through a constitutional and legal framework. The National Assembly explained that the other Constitution Alteration Bills will be transmitted to the state legislatures after being passed in identical form by both chambers of the National Assembly.
The National Assembly's clarification comes as part of its ongoing Constitution alteration exercise, with several proposals before lawmakers for consideration. The legislature assured that the process is being conducted transparently, responsibly, and in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
The National Assembly also urged members of the public and the media to rely on official communications from the National Assembly for accurate information on the status and transmission of the various Constitution Alteration Bills. This move aims to prevent misinformation and ensure that stakeholders are well-informed about the progress of the Constitution alteration process.
The State Police Bill has garnered significant attention, with various stakeholders expressing support for its passage. The bill is expected to address concerns over security and policing in Nigeria by establishing State Police Services. The National Assembly's commitment to transparency and responsible lawmaking is crucial in this process.
The National Assembly's ongoing efforts to alter the Constitution are aimed at addressing various pressing issues in Nigeria. By prioritizing the State Police Bill and ensuring transparency in the process, the National Assembly is working to meet public demands for effective governance and security.
Key points
- National Assembly clarifies only State Police Bill sent to 36 state assemblies
- The State Police Bill aims to establish State Police Services and address security concerns
- National Assembly prioritized the bill due to widespread public demand and security needs
