Benue Assembly passes state police bill, seeks constitutional amendment
Benue Assembly Passes State Police Bill, Seeks Constitutional Amendment
The Benue State House of Assembly has approved a bill aimed at amending the Nigerian Constitution to facilitate the establishment of state police forces. This initiative is part of a broader movement to decentralize policing in response to the nation’s ongoing security challenges.
The bill was passed during a plenary session on Tuesday, presided over by Speaker Alfred Emberga. Discussions were led by House Majority Leader Peter Ipusu, who emphasized the need for quick legislative action on the proposed amendment. He argued that state police would enhance intelligence gathering, improve emergency response capabilities, and strengthen law enforcement at the local level.
Ipusu noted that decentralized policing could effectively address various security threats, including rural banditry, conflicts between farmers and herders, and urban crime. Additionally, he suggested that it could create jobs and foster greater accountability within law enforcement.
The proposed constitutional amendment outlines a framework for the operation of state police services, detailing their responsibilities, funding, and coordination with the Federal Police Service. Following the bill’s passage, Speaker Emberga instructed the Clerk of the House to relay the decision to the National Assembly for further legislative proceedings.
According to Section 9 of the 1999 Constitution, any amendments require approval from at least two-thirds of the members in both chambers of the National Assembly, as well as support from two-thirds of all State Houses of Assembly, before progressing to the President for assent.
In another development, the Assembly approved the Free Eye Screening and Cataract Surgery Bill, introduced by Simon Gabo, who represents the Mata State Constituency. Speaker Emberga directed the Standing Committee on Rules and Business to prepare this legislation for further discussion.
These bills were among the significant actions taken by lawmakers during the plenary session on October 20, 2026.
