The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, aimed at providing a constitutional framework for the establishment and operation of State Police Services. The bill was passed after a clause-by-clause consideration by legislators, presided over by Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin. This move follows a letter from the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, transmitting the bill to the Oyo Assembly for consideration and approval.
The National Assembly transmitted the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill to the 36 state Houses of Assembly on September 16, 2026. With the passage, Oyo Assembly joins Osun, Edo, and Rivers Houses of Assembly in approving the bill. The Senate had passed the bill on June 24, 2026, while the House of Representatives passed it on July 23, 2026. State legislators have a 30-day window to consider the bill.
According to Speaker Ogundoyin, the passage of the bill will have significant legislative implications for the Oyo Assembly. The assembly will need to develop a comprehensive State Police Law to translate the constitutional framework into an effective operational institution. This law will enable the state to establish its own Police Service through legislation.
The proposed amendment aims to restructure Nigeria's policing architecture by providing for a Federal Police Service alongside State Police Services. Each state will be empowered to establish its own Police Service through legislation by the state House of Assembly. The bill defines the respective responsibilities of federal and state police authorities.
State police will be responsible for enforcing state laws, maintaining public safety and order, preventing and detecting offenses, protecting life and property, and other local policing functions prescribed by state law. The proposed framework will also establish State Police Service Commissions to oversee the appointment, promotion, transfer, discipline, and accountability of state police personnel.
The bill provides for a State Commander of Police to head each State Police Service. The commander will be appointed by the governor on the recommendation of the National Police Council and subject to confirmation by the state House of Assembly. This move is expected to enhance local policing and ensure accountability.
The passage of the bill marks a significant step towards decentralizing policing in Nigeria. The Oyo State House of Assembly's approval is a testament to the state's commitment to implementing the proposed constitutional amendment. The bill's implementation will depend on the development of a comprehensive State Police Law by the Oyo Assembly.
Key points
- Oyo State House of Assembly passes Constitution of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026
- Bill aims to establish state police services and restructure Nigeria's policing architecture
- Oyo Assembly joins Osun, Edo, and Rivers Houses of Assembly in approving the bill
