IGP Submits State Police Framework to Senate as Constitutional Review Gains Momentum

75-page proposal outlines structure, governance and coordination of federal and state policing system

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By A1 News International | Abuja, Nigeria

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has submitted a comprehensive framework for the establishment of state police to the National Assembly, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s push toward decentralised policing.

The 75-page document was presented to the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, as part of ongoing constitutional review efforts aimed at addressing the country’s security challenges.

Framework Details and Strategic Objectives

The document, titled “A Comprehensive Framework for the Establishment, Governance and Coordination of Federal and State Police,” outlines the proposed operational structure and administrative model for state policing.

It was submitted on behalf of the IGP by Professor Olu Ogunsakin, who chaired the Nigeria Police Force committee tasked with developing the proposal.

According to the police chief, the framework reflects extensive consultations and professional assessments of the legal, operational, and administrative implications of creating state police.

The report is intended to serve as the Nigeria Police Force’s formal input into the constitutional amendment process.

Senate Begins Review Amid Security Concerns

Senator Barau Jibrin, who chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and aligned with the Federal Government’s security agenda.

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He assured that the committee would thoroughly examine the proposal alongside other submissions as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

The move follows earlier agreement between President Bola Tinubu and state governors in 2024 on the need to decentralise policing to tackle rising insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency.

Debate Persists Over Risks and Implementation

Despite growing support, the proposal continues to generate debate among stakeholders.

Critics have raised concerns that state police could be misused by governors as political tools, while others question the financial capacity of states to sustain independent police forces.

There are also fears regarding potential human rights abuses in the absence of strong oversight mechanisms.

The establishment of state police will ultimately depend on constitutional amendments requiring approval by the National Assembly and at least two-thirds of State Houses of Assembly.

The submission of the framework signals progress in Nigeria’s long-debated move toward decentralised policing. If implemented effectively, it could enhance local security response. However, unresolved concerns around funding, accountability, and political control remain critical to its success.