Reps withdraw state police approval, look at Tinubu’s new bill

The House of Representatives on Tuesday took back its earlier approval of a bill to set up state police. This move opens the door for a new look at a revised proposal from President Bola Tinubu.

The lawmakers also moved the new Executive Bill to the second reading during their meeting.

This decision came after a motion by Francis Waive, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business. He used Order Nine, Rule 6 of the House Standing Orders to ask for a reversal of the chamber’s past decision.

Mr Waive reminded everyone that on 11 June, the House had approved changes to the 1999 Constitution. This included creating the legal basis for State Police Services.

He also noted that on 9 July, the House set up a 12-member Conference Committee to align its stance with the Senate on the state police setup. But he said new developments made it important to review the legislation again.

According to him, new issues found in the proposed law need a thorough review to make sure it fits Nigeria’s security needs. “New facts have emerged regarding the provisions of the bill, which necessitate a critical review and reconsideration of its clauses to align with national security structure,” Mr Waive said.

He mentioned that the House must take back both its earlier approval of the bill and the formation of the Conference Committee on State Police Services. After a voice vote led by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, the House agreed to the motion, putting aside its earlier decision on the constitutional amendment.

Tinubu’s new proposal

Not long after reversing the earlier resolution, the House took a look at a new Executive Bill from President Bola Tinubu. This bill aims to change the 1999 Constitution to create a legal framework for State Police Services.

The bill, which the speaker read, passed the second reading without any opposition. In a message that came with the proposal, President Tinubu said this legislation builds on past efforts by the National Assembly. It also adds new safeguards for a dual policing system that includes both the Nigeria Police Force and state police.

He mentioned that this proposed change is part of his administration’s wider plan to reorganize the country’s security system due to rising security challenges. “The proposed legislation is a critical component of our administration’s strategy to reorganise Nigeria’s security architecture to better protect our citizens, and I am confident that the House of Representatives will act quickly to consider and pass this bill,” the president said.

Mr Tinubu urged lawmakers to consider the bill quickly. He described it as necessary for boosting public safety and improving security across the country.