Sokoto Lawmakers Approve Bill for State Police Establishment
The Sokoto State House of Assembly has unanimously passed a bill seeking the establishment of state police, in a move that could advance efforts to decentralise policing and strengthen security across the state.
The bill was passed during plenary on Tuesday under the leadership of the Speaker, Tukur Bala Bodinga, amid growing calls for reforms to Nigeria’s security architecture.
Confirming the development, Bodinga told a correspondent that the lawmakers had approved the bill, adding that an official statement would be released to provide further details.
“Yes, we have passed the bill today. You will see the statement any moment from now,” the Speaker said.
The development comes as communities, particularly in Nigeria’s North-West, continue to face security threats, including banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Proponents of state police believe the proposed system would improve grassroots security by bringing policing closer to local communities, strengthening intelligence gathering and enabling faster responses to criminal activities.
They argue that police officers operating within their respective states would have a better understanding of local terrain, community dynamics and emerging security threats, thereby improving collaboration between law enforcement agencies and residents.
However, the proposal has also generated concerns over possible political interference, inadequate funding, operational independence and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Security experts and advocates have stressed the importance of establishing clear legal safeguards, effective oversight mechanisms, professional training and sustainable funding to ensure that state police operate efficiently and remain accountable.
The passage of the bill by the Sokoto Assembly represents a step in the ongoing constitutional process towards establishing state police in Nigeria.
The National Assembly had previously transmitted the proposed framework to state legislatures for consideration as part of the constitutional amendment process required to enable the creation of state police.
Further details regarding the Sokoto Assembly’s decision are expected in an official statement from the House.
