Akpabio urges senators to attend plenary for state police bill vote
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to lawmakers to ensure full attendance at Wednesday’s plenary session for a vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to establish state police services across Nigeria. Akpabio described the State Police Bill as a landmark piece of legislation capable of reshaping Nigeria’s security architecture and strengthening grassroots security management. He emphasized that constitutional amendments require broad participation and urged senators to view it as a national responsibility. Akpabio noted that the proposed amendment would create the legal framework for state police while including safeguards against potential abuse. He argued that the reform would deepen community-based policing by involving local governments, traditional institutions, and other grassroots stakeholders, improving intelligence gathering and proactive responses to security threats. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also underscored the importance of attendance, reminding senators that constitutional amendments need the support of at least two-thirds of members. He described the proposal as a national issue transcending partisan interests. The Senate adjourned until Wednesday, June 24, 2026, for the debate and vote. The push for state police has gained traction following President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement. For the amendment to become law, it requires two-thirds support from both the Senate and House of Representatives, and ratification by at least 24 state Houses of
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