Introduction
In response to Nigeria’s persistent security challenges and the limitations of a centralised policing system, the House of Representatives has introduced a transformative bill to establish State Police and Local Government Police across the federation. Sponsored by Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, this bill marks a major shift in the country’s approach to internal security and law enforcement.
If enacted, the legislation would amend relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), devolving policing powers to subnational units, allowing states and local governments to create and maintain their own police forces within a regulated federal framework.
Background
Nigeria’s current centralised policing model, administered solely by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) under federal command, has struggled to meet the growing and complex security needs of a diverse nation. From banditry and terrorism in the North, to cult violence in the South-South, and rising cases of kidnapping and armed robbery across states, there is a consensus among stakeholders that the status quo is unsustainable.
Hon. Kalu’s bill responds to this crisis by pushing for a multi-level policing structure, empowering states and local councils to manage internal security more effectively. The proposed decentralization is expected to enhance community-based policing, improve rapid response to local threats, and reduce the burden on federal police structures.
Key Features of the Bill
- Establishment of State and Local Police Authorities
Each state and local government will have constitutional backing to establish its own police force, subject to federal oversight. - Legal and Constitutional Amendments
The bill seeks to amend key sections of the 1999 Constitution, particularly:- Section 214: To allow for other police forces beyond the Nigeria Police.
- The Second Schedule (Exclusive and Concurrent Lists): To include policing under Concurrent Legislative powers.
- Other related provisions ensuring regulatory harmony and inter-agency collaboration.
- Recruitment and Training Standards
State and Local Police Forces will be required to meet minimum recruitment, training, and operational standards set by a newly proposed National Policing Commission, ensuring professionalism and uniformity. - Jurisdictional Limitations
State and Local Police Forces will operate strictly within their territorial boundaries and will not supersede federal policing authority on national matters such as terrorism, arms trafficking, and inter-state crimes.
Benefits and Impact
- Improved Localized Security
With officers drawn from local communities, policing will become more context-sensitive, culturally aware, and intelligence-driven. - Reduced Response Time
Local forces will be able to respond more quickly and effectively to incidents, especially in rural or underserved areas. - Employment Opportunities
The establishment of new police forces at subnational levels will open up job opportunities and strengthen civil institutions. - Enhanced Public Trust
Community-based officers are more likely to build trust and engage in proactive crime prevention.
Concerns and Safeguards
While widely supported, the bill has also generated debate over potential misuse of local police by state governors or local council chairmen. Critics fear it could lead to political victimization, corruption, or the emergence of partisan security outfits.
Stakeholder Reactions
Civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and security experts have largely welcomed the bill as a bold and necessary reform. However, they emphasise the need for strict regulatory oversight, public engagement, and capacity-building at state and local levels before implementation.
INEC, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), and the Police Service Commission (PSC) are expected to play advisory roles as the bill moves through readings and potential constitutional amendment procedures.
Conclusion
The proposed establishment of State and Local Government Police, championed by Hon. Benjamin Kalu, represents a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s security discourse. It reflects an evolving consensus that policing must be brought closer to the people to be truly effective.
As Nigeria considers this critical legislative proposal, the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF) remains committed to supporting research, dialogue, and evidence-based policymaking to ensure reforms are both impactful and sustainable.
SOURCES
House of Representatives Nigeria. (2024, February 20). House of Reps considers bill to establish state, local government police. Retrieved from https://www.house.gov.ng
The Nation. (2024, February 21). Reps consider bill for creation of state, LG police. Retrieved from https://thenationonlineng.net/reps-consider-bill-for-creation-of-state-lg-police/
Channels Television. (2024, February 20). House of Reps begins debate on bill to establish State Police. Retrieved from https://www.channelstv.com
Premium Times. (2024, February 20). Nigeria’s Reps begin process to amend Constitution for State, LG Police. Retrieved from https://www.premiumtimesng.com
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended). (n.d.). National Assembly of Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.nass.gov.ng/document/download/6380
