In a significant move towards addressing Nigeria’s escalating security challenges, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, announced the National Assembly’s readiness to amend the nation’s constitution to incorporate state police. This initiative, aimed at decentralizing Nigeria’s security architecture, comes in response to the increasing incidents of kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and other crimes plaguing the country.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Adaramodu highlighted the bipartisan support for the creation of state police, a proposal that has received commendations from security experts, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and Nigerian Federalists. This step is seen as a pivotal moment in the push for legislative reforms that could lead to a more effective and responsive security system nationwide.
The discussion on state police gained momentum following a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the 36 state governors, where the feasibility of establishing state-operated police forces was explored. This proposal aligns with the calls from various quarters, including the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organization, Afenifere, for a restructuring of Nigeria’s political system and a reduction in the cost of governance.
Moreover, a legislative proposal advocating a shift from the presidential to a parliamentary system of government has been introduced in the House of Representatives. This bill, sponsored by a group of 60 lawmakers led by Hon. Wale Raji, underscores a growing sentiment among Nigerian lawmakers for significant governmental and constitutional reforms.
Adaramodu emphasized that any amendment to the constitution would require broad consensus, with at least 24 out of the 36 states needing to support the changes before presidential assent. The forthcoming constitution review committees will play a crucial role in this process, engaging with stakeholders across the country to ensure that proposed laws reflect the aspirations and needs of Nigerians.
This legislative initiative underscores a critical juncture in Nigeria’s governance, as the country seeks to address its complex security challenges and the inefficiencies of an over-centralized security apparatus. With the National Assembly’s move towards embracing state police and considering a shift in the system of government, Nigeria stands at the threshold of potentially transformative constitutional reforms aimed at enhancing national security, reducing governance costs, and responding effectively to the pressing needs of its citizens.
Source: This Day Live
