The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, aimed at establishing a constitutional framework for State Police Services. The bill was passed after a clause-by-clause consideration by legislators, presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin. This development follows the transmission of the bill to the Oyo Assembly by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana.
The bill's passage is a significant step towards restructuring Nigeria's policing architecture. It proposes a Federal Police Service alongside State Police Services, empowering each state to establish its own Police Service through legislation by the State House of Assembly. The bill defines the responsibilities of federal and state police authorities, with state police responsible for enforcing state laws, public safety, and order.
The proposed framework establishes State Police Service Commissions to oversee the appointment, promotion, transfer, discipline, and accountability of state police personnel. A State Commander of Police will head each State Police Service, appointed by the Governor on the recommendation of the National Police Council and subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
The Oyo State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, noted that the bill's passage would have significant legislative implications for the Oyo Assembly. He emphasized the need to develop a comprehensive State Police Law to translate the constitutional framework into an effective operational institution.
The Senate passed the bill on June 24, 2026, while the House of Representatives passed it on July 23, 2026, urging state legislatures to expedite its consideration. The bill's passage in Oyo State is a step towards facilitating the conclusion of the constitutional alteration process under Section 9 of the 1999 Constitution.
With the bill's passage, Oyo State can now establish its own State Police Service, addressing local policing needs and enhancing public safety. The state police will focus on enforcing state laws, preventing and detecting offences, and protecting life and property.
The Oyo Assembly's approval of the bill brings Nigeria closer to implementing a more decentralized policing system, with state police services playing a crucial role in maintaining law and order. The bill's implementation will depend on further legislation and regulations.
Key points
- Oyo State House of Assembly passes Constitution of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, for state police services.
- Bill proposes Federal Police Service alongside State Police Services, empowering states to establish their own police services.
- Implementation of state police services aims to enhance public safety and address local policing needs.
