Nigerian Senate passes bill to establish state police, moving reform to state assemblies
via Punch Nigeria12 min read
Nigeria's Senate has passed a Constitution Alteration Bill aimed at decentralizing policing, a move that now requires approval from at least 24 of the 36 state Houses of Assembly to become law. This legislation seeks to create state-controlled police services to operate alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force, a significant shift from the country's long-standing exclusive federal policing structure. The bill, approved by a two-thirds majority in the Senate, empowers governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by state legislatures. Proponents argue this dual policing structure will improve security by bringing law enforcement closer to communities, with state police handling local issues like enforcing state laws and maintaining public order, while federal police focus on national security matters such as counter-terrorism and organized crime. Safeguards have been included to prevent abuse of power by governors, such as a provision stating that a state Commissioner of Police cannot arrest or deploy force against individuals or groups merely for criticizing the government, except in accordance with the law. The National Assembly would also retain powers to prescribe minimum national standards for state police services. Supporters, including retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Aare Tunji Alapinni and the Western Nigeria Security Network Amotekun, believe state policing will strengthen grassroots security and improve intel
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
AC Milan and Real Betis are reportedly monitoring Nigerian forward Christantus Uche, who is set to return to Getafe after a loan spell at Crystal Palace. Uche's time at Crystal Palace concluded without a permanent deal, as he made 14 appearances across all competitions with one assist. His loan agreement stipulated that Crystal Palace would pay €20m if he started 10 Premier League matches, a threshold that was not met. Getafe is open to selling Uche if a suitable offer is received. AC Milan had previously shown interest in Uche before his move to Crystal Palace. Real Betis is also reportedly monitoring the situation, though Getafe may be reluctant to sell to a domestic rival. Uche is expected to be reintegrated into the Getafe squad while the club remains open to offers.
Must ReadProfessor Emmanuel Ojo of the University of Ilorin has warned that West Africa risks a cycle of military takeovers if governments do not address governance challenges and declining public confidence in democratic institutions. Speaking at Koladaisi University, Professor Ojo stated that the rise in military interventions, particularly in the Sahel, is linked to public dissatisfaction with civilian governments over insecurity, economic difficulties, unemployment, and perceived leadership failures. He noted that weak governance and declining trust in democratic institutions create conditions where military rule is seen by some as an alternative. Professor Ojo identified weak democratic consolidation, legitimacy crises, poor institutional capacity, economic challenges, fragile national identity, and external interference as contributing factors to the return of military interventions. He argued that political leaders' failure to deliver inclusive development and accountable governance could continue to weaken civilian administrations. Professor Ojo also linked support for some military governments to resentment among young Africans over perceived foreign domination. He urged African governments to prioritize transparency, accountability, and people-centered policies, emphasizing that stronger democratic institutions, improved civil-military relations, and economic development are crucial to preventing further military takeovers. Temitope Bello, Acting Director of Research and Dev
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Joanah Gigi, has cautioned orphanage operators in the state to adhere strictly to child adoption laws and regulations or face sanctions, including facility closure. During a meeting with private orphanage operators in Yenagoa, Commissioner Gigi emphasized that all adoption matters must be handled in collaboration with the ministry. She urged operators to ensure all dealings with prospective adoptive parents comply with legal frameworks and established procedures. Gigi stated that the meeting was held to brief stakeholders on new national policies and strategies on child adoption and welfare, designed to address previous loopholes and strengthen the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women, children, and families in the adoption process. She stressed that any adoption without approved procedures, proper documentation, and ministry certification is illegal, and violating orphanages will be sanctioned. The Commissioner announced that unscheduled monitoring visits to orphanages would soon commence to assess compliance. Mrs. Agnes Oloye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, noted that the Bayelsa State Government supports children in its orphanages until age 18. Mr. Olufemi Koleola, CEO of Blossom Orphanage, welcomed the new policies but suggested they should also address pressure from prospective parents seeking quick adoption processes.